Heat should have zero regret in drafting Kasparas Jakucionis despite slow development

Toronto Raptors v Miami Heat | Issac Baldizon/GettyImagesRemember the wave of excitement surrounding the Miami Heat's selection of Kasparas Jakucionis as the 20th overall pick of the 2025 NBA draft? That was never tied to any hopes of him competing for a rotation role on opening night and vying for Rookie of the Year honors. And even if it was, his shaky showing in summer league basically underlined and highlighted his need for further development.

The Heat have always been playing the long game with Jakucionis, who will complete his first NBA go-round before celebrating his 20th birthday. And they've already seen some positive returns from their slow-and-steady developmental plan, perhaps…