Dec 7, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat guard Dru Smith (12) grabs the ball against Phoenix Suns forward Josh Okogie (2) during the second half at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

Dru Smith Finally Finding His Way With Miami Heat

Originally posted on Miami Heat on SI
By Miguel Mike Medina | Last updated Dec 9, 2024 10:46 AM ET

Miami Heat guard Dru Smith had his best performance of the season on Sunday night against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

It was the first time he faced the Cavs since injuring his right knee against them Nov. 22, 2023.

On Sunday, the storyline was different. In 26 minutes, Smith had 11 points (all in the fourth quarter), four rebounds, and two assists, including 4 of 9 from the field.

Is Dru Smith a better version than Gabe Vincent?

Smith, like Vincent, was undrafted, and they plays with a lot of hustle. Both are good playmakers. Smith is a better defender and rebounder than Vincent. Smith’s defense is pesky.

Although Vincent is the better scorer, Smith can still work to become a good offensive player. He did make three of his six three-pointers against the Cavaliers.

That’s a sign of progress. Smith’s impact was huge on both ends of the floor.

Just watch Dru Smith on this possession pic.twitter.com/TTxiHjtnNi
— HEAT on FanDuel Sports Network (@FanDuelSN_Heat) December 9, 2024

“Just good to get a win back to back,” Smith said. “I think we’re always lifting each other. Just celebrating each other, so no one’s telling me to do anything necessarily. I just go out there. Be yourself and try to have an impact on winning.”

Bam Adebayo admired Haywood Highsmith and Smith's play on both offense and defense. Two guys who weren’t in the starting lineup at the beginning of the season are now maximizing their opportunities in regular minutes.

“They are energizer bunnies for us,” Adebayo said. “Dru comes in and changes the game on that side of the ball. Highsmith does what he does in the defensive end, and that’s all we can ask from them, and they’re making plays. It’s not just the defense. It’s being in the right spot at the right time, understanding the time and score, and understanding where to get the ball.”

Miguel Mike Medina is a contributor to Miami Heat On SI. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com

X: @mmm_sportnfilms, Instagram: @miguel_passionforsports, TikTok: @miguelmikemedina

This article first appeared on Miami Heat on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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