As the clock ticks down to the Miami Heat’s 2025-26 training camp in Boca Raton—just about eight weeks away—the team faces an unexpected twist. Haywood Highsmith, a reliable defensive specialist with solid three-point shooting, is sidelined for at least that long due to offseason knee surgery. While his absence stings for a squad eyeing rotation depth, it opens doors for others to shine. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra often emphasizes players “making me notice you” through hustle, skill, and impact. Highsmith was pegged for an eighth or ninth spot in the rotation, so who could seize this moment? Let’s dive into five players with a shot at earning Spoelstra’s attention, including one who desperately needs to rebound. This isn’t just about filling minutes—it’s about reshaping the Heat’s future.
Starting from the outside looking in and building to the must-watch talent, here’s a breakdown of the contenders. Each brings unique strengths that could align with Spoelstra’s system, known for its versatility and emphasis on energy over traditional roles.
5. Simone Fontecchio: The Potential Sharpshooter Surprise
Acquired in a sign-and-trade from Detroit that sent away all-time three-point leader Duncan Robinson, Fontecchio arrives with a mixed bag. Heat fans might remember him for those nightmare shooting nights against Miami, where he torched the defense with off-ball movement. Last season, his three-point percentage dipped to a concerning 31%, leading some front-office whispers about him as a waive-and-stretch candidate. But with Highsmith out, Fontecchio’s mobility could prove invaluable early on. The Heat lack a true movement shooter in their core rotation, and he might serve as a temporary fix, stretching the floor and creating space. As one observer noted during a past game: “Said before the game that Fontecchio would cook the Heat again. He’s got 15 in the first half. Players who move like him always give the Heat trouble.” If he rediscovers his form, this Italian forward could turn skeptics into believers and secure a longer look.
4. Keshad Johnson: The Undrafted Hustler Aiming for Payoff
Snapped up as an undrafted free agent in 2024 after the Heat’s scouting team, led by Adam Simon, nearly drafted him in the second round, Johnson has been grinding behind the scenes. His athleticism and effort earned him a standard contract, with flashes in the G-League showing promise. Yet, the results have been sparse: under 100 minutes in his rookie year and just one standout summer league game in Las Vegas in 2025. What sets him apart from Highsmith? Superior bounce and relentless energy—qualities Spoelstra adores. With the Heat carefully managing roster spots to avoid luxury tax pitfalls, Johnson needs to impress now. This window could be his make-or-break moment to prove he’s worth keeping in long-term plans, turning raw potential into consistent contributions.
3. Nikola Jovic: The Versatile Big Ready to Expand His Role
At 6-foot-11, Jovic might seem an odd fit to compete for minutes against the 6-foot-5 Highsmith, but Spoelstra’s system thrives on positional fluidity, often favoring skill over size. The 21-year-old Serbian has drawn rave reviews from the coach for his enhanced professionalism and physical conditioning. Spoelstra is particularly excited about Jovic’s upcoming stint with Serbia in EuroBasket, where he could claim a starring role. Highsmith’s injury might push the Heat toward bigger lineups more often, giving Jovic extra opportunities to showcase his passing, shooting, and defense. Remember his defensive stand against Donovan Mitchell in the 2025 playoffs? That grit could translate into a major leap. In a league obsessed with small-ball, Jovic represents Spoelstra’s willingness to innovate—potentially making him a fixture rather than a fringe player.
2. Pelle Larsson: The Fearless Second-Year Spark
Larsson, a second-round pick and former Arizona teammate of Johnson, has already positioned himself for rotation minutes after a stellar 2025 summer league. He impressed not just as a tenacious defender but as an initiator who attacks the rim with confidence. Spoelstra’s fondness for his intensity is evident—Larsson plays with a fearlessness that echoes Heat culture. While his shooting needs polishing, his overall game could soak up even more time with Highsmith sidelined. A highlight from summer league? A scorching 14-point first half that had fans buzzing. If Larsson builds on that, he might evolve from a promising backup to a key cog, blending defense with offensive flair in ways that complement stars like Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.
1. Jaime Jaquez Jr.: The Sophomore in Need of a Revival
Topping the list is Jaquez, who burst onto the scene as a first-team All-Rookie but stumbled in his second year. Opponents figured out his tricks, and confidence waned, turning him from a dynamic slasher to a corner-stander. Spoelstra highlighted in Las Vegas the need to rediscover Jaquez’s “downhill” aggression—driving hard and creating chaos. With Highsmith out, this is Jaquez’s golden opportunity to reassert himself in training camp. Reports paint him as motivated and in high spirits, eager for redemption. As a UCLA product with Heat DNA (versatility, toughness), he must capitalize now. If not, questions about his long-term fit could intensify. This isn’t optional for Jaquez—it’s essential for his career trajectory and the team’s depth.
Highsmith’s injury, while unfortunate, underscores the NBA’s unforgiving nature: one player’s setback is another’s spotlight. These five—Fontecchio’s shooting potential, Johnson’s athletic spark, Jovic’s size versatility, Larsson’s intensity, and Jaquez’s urgent need for a comeback—could redefine the Heat’s rotation. Spoelstra’s “make me notice you” mantra will be put to the test in Boca Raton, where effort and execution could turn temporary roles into permanent ones. As fans, we’ll watch closely; after all, the Heat’s championship aspirations often hinge on unsung heroes stepping up. Who do you think will shine brightest?