Heat Role Player Has a Chance to Win Most Improved
Jaime Jaquez Jr. has quickly shifted into serious contention for the Most Improved Player award this season, thanks to a marked jump in his efficiency, production and consistency. After a somewhat uneven sophomore year, he’s now averaging around 17.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game, while shooting nearly 60 percent from the field. These numbers alone signal a meaningful leap, but what’s particularly impressive is his improved shooting and his growing role in the rotation, which make a clear case for improvement. This could mark him as one of the team's X-Factors.
What stands out most is Jaquez’s shooting efficiency: he’s converting the vast majority of his attempts, especially near the basket. According to recent splits, his field goal percentage sits at about 57.4 percent with per-game averages of roughly 17 points, seven rebounds and five assists in some estimates. When you combine that with the fact that he’s doing so as a bench or “originating” second-unit player for Miami Heat, it suggests he’s developed more confidence, better shot selection, and a refined role — all hallmarks of a Most Improved candidate. Beyond raw numbers, Jaquez’s role and impact have shifted this season. He’s become a go-to contributor for his team off the bench, stepping up in moments when starters rest and showing he can handle more responsibility. For example, he erupted for 31 points on 11-of-16 shooting in a 35-minute stint against the Los Angeles Lakers. He likewise poured in 28 in another game while posting strong all-around numbers and extremely efficient shooting.
These breakout outings underscore how his growth isn’t just incremental—it’s visible and game-changing. That said, the Most Improved race is always competitive, and Jaquez will need to sustain this level of growth across the full season to lock it in. Maintaining his high efficiency, continuing to bolster his all-around game (especially stretches where his assist and rebound numbers climb), and staying healthy will be crucial. With that in mind, his early season surge gives him a timely arrow pointing firmly upward, and if he keeps this trajectory he absolutely has a strong shot at winning Most Improved Player.
