Why is Kasparas Jakucionis Struggling With Miami Heat in NBA Summer League?

Ever since Kasparas Jakucionis drew the eyes of NBA scouts, the glaring question marks surrounding his athleticism – both vertically and laterally – have lingered on his journey to the league.

Will his change of pace make up for his lack of burst? Can his craftiness and fundamentals around the rim offset his subpar jumping ability? Well, so far – which, mind you, is just a measly two summer league games – the answer is a resounding no. 

Everyone in the league – even those fighting for roster spots in the summer – has more length, is a step quicker and can jump a couple inches higher.

And those players with just a year or two of NBA reps under their belt? Well, their experience is invaluable. All of those factors pooled together have resulted in struggles upon struggles for Jakucionis in his first 43 minutes of official NBA-organized competition.

After going 1-for-7 and putting up an unimpressive stat line of three points, one rebound, one assist and three turnovers against the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday, Jakucionis followed with four points, one rebound, two assists and five turnovers against the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday.