Damian Lillard might miss training camp if he is traded to a team other than the Heat. Additionally, both Spoelstra and Jovic had disappointing ends to their FIBA World Cup runs. Let’s dive into it.
Heat Off-Season Companion Part 15: Lillard Could Miss Training Camp
There is finally an update on the Damian Lillard trade situation. According to Shams Charania, Lillard might not report to training camp if he is traded to a team other than the Heat. Shams specifically mentions the Toronto Raptors as one team that Lillard would not report to training camp for if traded there.
In any case, this is a positive development for the Heat. This makes it even less likely that a team other than the Heat will be willing to offer a significant trade package for Lillard. As a result, the Portland Trailblazers might have to negotiate with the Heat regarding Lillard.
Erik Spoelstra Had a Disappointing End to the FIBA World Cup with Team USA
Unfortunately, Spoelstra and Team USA had a disappointing conclusion to their FIBA World Cup run. Team USA lost 113-111 to Germany in the semifinals and lost again to Canada in the bronze-medal game. This is an unacceptable conclusion to Team USA’s FIBA World Cup Run.
Team USA’s lack of size really cost them in this tournament. Jaren Jackson Junior was the team’s only real big man and he struggled, having about as many fouls as points in some games. Steve Kerr should not be the head coach of Team USA after this.
Kerr is the one who chose the team and is ultimately responsible for its performance at the FIBA World Cup. Someone else should be Team USA’s head coach moving forward.
Heat Off-Season Companion Part 15: Nikola Jovic Lost in the FIBA World Cup Final with Team Serbia
Nikola Jovic and Team Serbia had a much better FIBA World Cup run than Team USA. However, Team Serbia lost the tournament’s final 83-77 to Germany. Jovic had nine points, eight rebounds, and one assist in the FIBA World Cup Final.
Despite the disappointing ending, this was a good experience for Jovic and he has majorly improved his skills. Hopefully, Jovic lets this disappointment motivate him to make a bigger impact for the Heat next season. Either way, Jovic deserves a larger role for the Heat in the upcoming 2023-2024 NBA season.
The Heat Continue to Ramp Up for the Upcoming Season
The Heat continue to prepare for the start of the 2023-2024 season. It would be ideal if the Heat had a resolution to the Damian Lillard trade season before the start of next season. It is a good bet that Nikola Jovic will play more for the Heat next season, as long as he is still on the team.
Check back next week for more Miami Heat content.