As the Miami Heat emerged as champions from the NBA Summer League, the team’s rookies played a crucial role in the tournament. Draft picks Kel’el Ware and Pelle Larsson impressed, but their exact roles for the upcoming season are yet to be determined. Nevertheless, Miami can be pleased with its draft class so far.
Miami’s Draft Picks Impress in Victorious Summer League
The Miami Heat Summer League squad recently clinched the tournament championship in Las Vegas, defeating the Memphis Grizzlies in overtime with a 120-118 victory. This successful Vegas outing has given the Heat organization much to celebrate, particularly the performances of Ware and Larsson. Selected 15th and 44th overall, respectively, Ware and Larsson demonstrated that Miami made the right choices in the draft.
Undefeated in Vegas, Ware averaged 18 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, surpassing 20 points in two games. Larsson showcased his skills and clutch ability, hitting the game-winner against the Grizzlies in the final game. He averaged 12.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, scoring 21 points in the semi-final game against the Golden State Warriors.
Kel’el Ware
Ware impressed on both ends of the floor, using his size and strength to score and his defensive prowess to dominate the paint. His rebounding and shot-blocking abilities likely convinced Pat Riley and the Heat coaching staff of his potential to support Bam Adebayo.
An added bonus is Ware’s willingness to shoot from long distance, a skill becoming more common among big men in today’s NBA. After shooting 30 percent from three on 1.7 attempts per game in the Summer League, Miami may encourage him to keep shooting, similar to the encouragement Adebayo received last season.
Standing at 7 feet and coming out of Indiana, Ware is still a rookie and will require development during the upcoming 2024-25 season. However, based on his Summer League performance, the potential and skill set are undeniably there. Miami’s first-round pick may find playing time this season and grow into a key player for the Heat.
Pelle Larsson
Pelle Larsson made a significant impact by hitting a game-winning shot to secure the championship. His strong performance in the win against the Warriors, which propelled the team to the final match against Memphis, showcased Larsson’s shooting and mental toughness.
Larsson’s situation is different from Ware’s due to the depth of players in his position on the Heat roster. Duncan Robinson, Alec Burks, and Josh Richardson are all likely ahead of Larsson on the depth chart. Robinson’s roster spot is secure, and Burks was not signed to play minimal minutes. Richardson might be Larsson’s main competition.
Regardless, Larsson will need to earn his playing time by continuing to make timely shots and proving his worth.
Potential Will Be Met with Development
Whatever roles Ware and Larsson play next season, their Summer League performances have highlighted their potential. Earning minutes is a challenge for most rookies, but in Miami, these rookies have found a prime environment for development. Miami fans can look forward to seeing the growth of Kel’el Ware and Pelle Larsson.
