It was just one game, but there’s an argument to be made that the Miami Heat’s biggest fears came to life in Kasparas Jakucionis’ underwhelming NBA Summer League debut. In his somewhat disastrous first summer league game, Jakucionis finished with three points, one assist, and three turnovers on 1 for 7 shooting from the field and 0-4 from 3-point range in the Heat’s 82-69 win over the San Antonio Spurs.

Considering that Jakucionis’ biggest weaknesses heading into the NBA Draft revolved around his shaky shooting and turnovers, it wasn’t a great debut for the 19-year-old guard.

Again, it’s probably smart to point out that it was just one game and there was some clear nervousness in his game. It’s only natural. However, there’s no question that the fans probably expected more from Jakucionis’ first game with the Heat.

During his first stint, which roughly lasted about five minutes, Jakucionis had clear jitters, but he did have some good playmaking opportunities. Those resulted in a couple of missed shots and a turnover (charge). But his passing clearly stood out, and his effort on the defensive end of the floor was evident.

There were some more bright spots in the second half, but it was clear that he still didn’t look 100 percent comfortable just yet. Even despite the underwhelming first game, the hope is that Jakucionis is going to start looking better and better with the more reps he gets.

Other Heat players who stood out

While Jakucionis didn’t provide the promise that perhaps Heat fans were expecting, there were a few other notable players who did manage to turn heads in Miami’s opening summer league contest.

Erik Stevenson (4-4 from 3PT) and Pelle Larsson led all scorers for the Heat, both finished with 16 points. Kel’el Ware continues to show strides in his game as he finished with 13 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks. Perhaps most importantly, Ware did manage to look more comfortable in the paint.

Keshad Johnson, who was recently awarded a standard contract for the 2025-26 NBA season, finished with nine points, nine rebounds, and four blocks.

All in all, it was a solid showing for the Heat, who are reportedly looking to lean more on their young core heading into the new season. But, clearly, the concern heading deeper into the NBA Summer League schedule will revolve around Jakucionis.

As a unanimous first-round steal, there was simply more expected from Jakucionis during his debut. If he had all the attention in his debut, there’s no question that will only increase heading into his second game with the Heat.