Rookie Kasparas Jakucionis Shines in NBA Debut with Goran Dragić as His Guiding Mentor

The 20th pick overall in this year’s draft and a former youth player from Barcelona, the talented Lithuanian guard Kasparas Jakucionis made an impression during his debut in the NBA.

After being sidelined for the first two preseason matches due to a sprained left wrist, Jakucionis scored eight points and tallied 10 assists, accompanied by just three turnovers, in 25 minutes of play as the Heat fell to the Spurs 112–107 at the Kaseya Center.

The rookie quickly showcased his exceptional court vision, recording four assists within his initial four minutes of play.

“He possesses great vision,” head coach Erik Spoelstra remarked, according to the Miami Herald. “That might have contributed to some of his turnovers in college. He’s both willing and bold enough to make those plays. He has the vision and isn’t afraid to go for it.”

Jakucionis kicked off the game with a succession of impressive passes, setting up Keshad Johnson and Jaime Jaquez Jr. for transition dunks, in addition to assisting Kel’el Ware with several scores, including a three-pointer.

“Occasionally, he simply makes the straightforward play, which is what receivers appreciate,” Spoelstra noted. “You can see a natural chemistry developing between him and Kel’el.”

Despite his noteworthy performance, Jakucionis remained grounded.

“I’m not sure. I’m just trying to play quickly, even though I believe we could have pushed for a faster pace today,” he shared. “But it all stems from practice. I’m just focused on doing my part.”

Present at his debut was mentor Goran Dragić, a revered figure in Heat history, who had been guiding Jakucionis throughout training camp.

“It means a lot to have such a mentor and to absorb all the knowledge he offers,” Jakucionis expressed. “He shares valuable advice, and I’m trying to listen attentively and ask questions whenever I have them, striving to absorb as much as possible.”

On Dragić’s mentorship, Jakucionis concluded:

“His guidance is clear: play quickly, think smart, and leverage my strengths against others.”