"The Miami Heat have a real chance to surprise folks during the 2025-26 NBA season. Now, that's partly due to the relative lack of expectations for this team, but it's also a belief built around real, tangible excitement for a young core that impressed all offseason. Pelle Larsson had a sensational summer. Nikola Jovic starred at EuroBasket. Kel'el Ware looked unstoppable in the preseason. All three, plus first-round pick Kasparas Jakucionis, figured to play a massive part in Miami surprising all the skeptics this season."
"During Miami's season-opening loss to the Orlando Magic, though, coach Erik Spoelstra opted to lean heavily on a veteran core that, frankly, is a big part of why expectations aren't any higher for this team. If the Heat are going to keep riding their veterans, then this ride is headed nowhere special. Miami's young core could unlock new possibilities for this season, but only if it gets a chance."
Miami's young core generated tangible offseason excitement after standout performances: Pelle Larsson had a sensational summer, Nikola Jovic starred at EuroBasket, Kel'el Ware dominated the preseason, and first-round pick Kasparas Jakucionis projects to play a major role. Coach Erik Spoelstra leaned on veterans in the season-opening loss to Orlando, limiting the young players' opportunities. Ware played just 14 minutes and sat through the closing eight minutes as Miami surrendered an eight-point lead and missed key rebounds. Rebounding remains a persistent issue, and Ware's presence on the floor presents the clearest on-court solution if given extended minutes.
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