Some fans don't understand it, but it's easy to see why Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra values Dru Smith. It's because he falls right in line with previous developmental success stories of guards who can't really shoot the basketball efficiently, but can do virtually everything else.
Smith epitomizes Heat culture, and in small doses, has proven to be quite productive for the organization. Perhaps most importantly, he's a true competitor. And that's what Spo has to like best.
Following in the steps of the likes of Norris Cole and Gabe Vincent, Smith isn't always an efficient offensive player, but he does much of everything that is asked of him from Spo. Smith plays within the offense, hustles, and is a good defender. He also doesn't necessarily need the ball in his hands to find success.
Dru Smith is an underrated piece of the Heat's build
Again, he may not demand the headlines, nor is he considered one of the primary core young pieces on the roster, but he fits everything that the Heat needs.
In his third season with the Heat, Smith is averaging seven points and three assists on 42 percent shooting from 3-point range. No, these are not numbers that are going to blow anyone away, but his impact goes well beyond the stat sheet.
Smith is one of those players who often gets overlooked, and one whose contributions are forgotten in the moment. However, when looking back, he's also a player that every winning team feeds off of.
And if Miami can find a path toward adding a star player at the NBA Trade Deadline (*cough* Giannis Antetokounmpo *cough*), there's no question that Smith will play an even bigger role for the team. He may not be a player that Miami forces the issue in trying to keep, but he's also one that could be a huge benefit in retaining.
Especially if the Heat's roster is absolutely gutted by a potential trade of Giannis, Smith is the type of player that they're going to want to fall back on.
Smith knows Spo's offense; he's the type of player that can play next to anyone and has the potential to do all the glue-type things the Heat will need next to a superstar.
Spo has stuck his head out time and time again for Smith over the past two seasons, and there's a reason why. Every team needs a player like Smith on their roster. And Spo has to feel comfortable to be able to lean on a player like Smith.