Heat Coach and Star Center Praise Young Role Player

This is the point in the NBA season where your depth really matters. Everyone can start the season with a healthy roster, but nobody is going to finish a season without dealing with some injuries. However, how your team deals with injuries and what players step up in the team’s time of need is massively important.

The Miami Heat have been dealing with injuries all season long, and recently, one of their role players has really stepped up. 

Last season, Pelle Larsson only averaged 4.6 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists for the Heat.

Erik Spoelstra had this to say about Larsson before the season started. 

“He’s an elite role player. If you mention that to some organizations, they probably think that that’s horrible. I think it fits absolutely with our style of play, our culture, how we view players, and how they impact winning. He knows how to defend multiple positions, he brings you physicality on that side of the floor. Offensively, he moves very well without the ball, so he could be a connector with whatever unit he plays.”

Over the last ten games, Spoelstra has been proven right. Since getting an expanded role, Larsson is averaging 10.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists over the last ten games.

Heat captain Bam Adebayo spoke about Larsson’s recent play. 

“We trust Pelle. Pelle is the guy that we can incorporate into our starting lineup, and you instantly see the difference. For organizations and players around the league, you want a guy like Pelle. If he gets 15 [points], that just adds to your offense. But you know what he’s bringing day in, day out.”

For bench players, injuries provide opportunities. Even though Spoelstra may have always believed in Larsson, Pelle is proving now to the rest of the NBA that he belongs.