Miami Heat rookie Kasparas Jakučionis appears to be close to returning from a right groin strain that has prevented him from suiting up to begin the regular season.
Jakučionis has been sidelined for the Heat’s first seven games because of the injury sustained on Oct. 12 in a preseason loss to the Orlando Magic. He is considered day-to-day and is making daily on-court progress with his rehabilitation.
The 20th pick traveled with the Heat on their four-game road trip that concludes on Wednesday in Denver. He has been listed as questionable to play in the contest at Ball Arena.
Jakučionis was limited to two preseason appearances after missing the first two games due to a sprained left wrist. He debuted on Oct. 8, producing eight points, 10 assists, two steals and one block in a loss against the San Antonio Spurs.
The 19-year-old was highly touted out of Illinois thanks to his ability to score at all three levels, playmaking, vision and passing. He was voted as the biggest steal of the draft in the annual survey of general managers released last month.
Jakučionis could have the opportunity for a larger role than initially expected for the Heat once he is cleared to return to action. The team has been impressed by his competitiveness, intensity and motor since the start of training camp.
