Heat guard Tyler Herro scores 24 points in return from rib injury
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Tyler Herro came off the bench to post a game-high 24 points Friday night as the Miami Heat defeated the Atlanta Hawks. The 26-year-old guard, sidelined for the past 15 games with three fractured ribs, shot 9-for-14 in 23 minutes and added four rebounds, three assists and one steal.
Head coach Erik Spoelstra said Herro’s reserve role is temporary. “We’re going to manage the minutes,” Spoelstra told reporters. “I’m not putting anything in cement. We finally have our full roster, and we just want everybody to pour into the team.” Herro wore a protective flak jacket and said his priority is staying healthy after appearing in only 12 games this season.
Larsson thriving as starter
Second-year wing Pelle Larsson has started during Herro’s absence and continued to produce Friday. Over his last 14 outings (all starts), the 22-year-old is averaging 12.8 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.5 assists while shooting 56.7% from the field. Spoelstra praised Larsson for “doing all the little things” that help energize the starting unit.
Injury report for Memphis game
Starting point guard Davion Mitchell is doubtful for Saturday’s contest against the Grizzlies because of an illness. Forward Nikola Jovic (low back tightness) and reserve guard Dru Smith (left calf soreness) are listed as questionable. Herro (ribs) and Norman Powell (illness) are probable on the second night of the back-to-back.
Rookie Jakucionis adjusting to NBA pace
First-round pick Kasparas Jakucionis told HoopsHype he is embracing the Heat’s culture after spending time in the G League early in the season. The rookie guard said the organization’s emphasis on work ethic and attention to detail aligns with his approach to basketball.
Source: HoopsRumors
