Jaime Jaquez Jr.: Thriving as Miami Heat’s Undisputed Sixth Man – Erik Spoelstra Has Zero Doubts

As the Miami Heat close out 2025 with a 17-15 record heading into their New Year’s Eve matchup against the Denver Nuggets, one of the brightest constants in an up-and-down season has been third-year forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. Coming off a disappointing sophomore slump marred by injuries and inefficiency, Jaquez has bounced back emphatically in 2025-26, cementing himself as the team’s go-to bench sparkplug – and head coach Erik Spoelstra couldn’t be more confident in that role

On December 29, 2025, Spoelstra addressed Jaquez’s evolution directly, praising the mental growth that has turned him into the “no-doubt sixth man.” “He’s had a clear mind… I was really talking about his competitive spirit and his voice being consistent… he’s been a great example of that,” Spo said. This comes after Jaquez has started just one of 31 games this season, consistently entering as the first substitute off the bench and often closing games with his versatility.

Jaquez’s numbers speak volumes: Through late December, he’s averaging 16.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 0.8 steals per game on efficient 52.1% shooting from the field (though just 26.4% from three). His true shooting percentage sits at a solid 57.6%, and he’s playing nearly 30 minutes per contest. These stats have vaulted him into the early conversation for Sixth Man of the Year, trailing only a handful of contenders like Naz Reid or emerging guards like Ajay Mitchell.

What makes Jaquez’s resurgence so impactful is how perfectly it fits Miami’s revamped, high-octane offense emphasizing rim attacks and pace. After struggling last season while trying to expand his range as a spot-up shooter, Jaquez has returned to his strengths: relentless drives, crafty post moves, cutting, and playmaking. Spoelstra has noted his consistency, even through team slumps, highlighting Jaquez’s “competitive will” as a driving force.

Teammates echo the sentiment. Bam Adebayo recently said of Jaquez’s SMOY buzz: “Man, I think he can do it.” And in games like the recent win over the Pacers, where Jaquez poured in 28 points alongside Andrew Wiggins, his ability to create “something out of nothing” has been a bench lifeline.

Spoelstra’s unwavering support underscores why this role is locked in – Jaquez provides scoring punch, rebounding, and defense without needing plays called for him, all while often finishing crunch-time lineups. For a Heat team relying on depth amid injuries (Tyler Herro, Bam Adebayo absences at times), his established sixth-man status is a luxury contenders dream of.

As Miami pushes for playoff positioning in a loaded East, Jaquez’s role isn’t changing anytime soon. Spo has no doubts – and the stats prove why.