Erik Spoelstra’s eye-opening take on how G League stint will help promising Heat big man

Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra spoke highly of Vladislav Goldin's performance in the team's recent preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Despite only logging seven minutes of playing time, Goldin put up 18 points on seven of ten field goals, including two long-range shots, and contributed six rebounds, two assists, and a block.

Spoelstra highlighted Goldin's improvement in moving at the "speed of the game," crediting his time in the G League for helping him adjust to the faster pace of the Miami Heat's system. Goldin, a seven-footer who joined the Heat's two-way contract last season, averaged 11.3 points, seven rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game in the G League.

His teammates, including Nikola Jovic, praised his character and potential, with Jovic calling Goldin "one of the best dudes" he's ever met. The Heat's new era, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, will benefit from the contributions of players like Goldin, who is expected to further develop his skills and fit into the Heat's fast-paced system.