Miami Heat’s Latest Prospect: Jaime Jaquez
(Via Saturday Out West)
The 2023 Draft had brought some top-end talent by the likes of French prospect Victor Wembanyama, G-League Ignite alumni Scoot Henderson, Alabama’s Brandon Miller, and many more. But with the 18th pick the Miami Heat went with UCLA forward and PAC-12 Player of the Year; Jaime Jaquez Jr. In fact, the first selection since Heat veteran Kevin Love in 2008. UCLA’s season success can be attributed to his versatility, leading his squad in scoring and having a team-best eight rebounds a game.
The Miami Heat were in deep need of some creation. After the loss of Tyler Herro early in the postseason, it became apparent in their Denver matchup that the Heat struggled to create quality offensive possessions without Jimmy Butler. Despite having a lower ceiling than some of the other prospects in the draft, Jaquez should be a solid contributor. He can be a light load PnR handler/Roller and a low usg percent Post-up and isolation player.
“However, of the 28 Division 1
wing forwards who made over 100 close shots, Jaquez Jr.’s percentage ranks 20th, highlighting his tendency to force the issue.”
Jamie has touch around the rim and tends to take methodical drives, mostly getting to his right hand. Usually through isolation or post-ups, he utilizes his position at the left elbow to lodge and maneuver through defenders of various positions. Despite shooting 31 percent from three, when given ample space, he's bound to make the team's pay. But despite his skill set, his biggest attribute is his winning attitude. By all accounts, Jamie is a winner, the LA Times attributed this to their column.
“How Jaime Jaquez Jr. became the UCLA Bruins’ toughest player”
Jaime comes from a basketball family, with his sister going to the same university to play D1 hoops along with his mother, a former All-American at Concordia University. His father doubled as his coach and was sure to be hard on him.
““He relishes the chance to put on that UCLA uniform, so he’d basically have to have a broken leg for you to take him off the court.”
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Most importantly, Jaime has the potential to fit into this system culturally. A tough temperament can go a long way, especially in Miami’s system. We’ve seen just recently the Heat make the most of whatever is available on the roster, getting the most out of the likes of Caleb Martin, Gabe Vincent, and Duncan Robinson. Jaime has the opportunity to add to the plethora of hard-nosed gritty players Miami cherishes.