Did Tre Donaldson Prove the Miami Heat of NBA Readiness?

MIAMI, Fla. – The Miami Heat have a rich history of finding overlooked talent and sharpening them into impactful role players, which gives two-way rookie Tre Donaldson a strong chance to carve out a long NBA career. 

Despite not being called in this year’s draft, the 22-year-old was among the strongest free agent candidates. Donaldson had a collegiate career season with the Miami Hurricanes: 16.4 points on 45.4 percent shooting, 3.6 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 1.4 steals in 35 games (33 starts). Although he won a Big 10 (Michigan) and SEC (Auburn) championship before arriving at Coral Gables, head coach Jai Lucas pushed him further to develop into a more complete player.

“My job was just different,” Donaldson told MiamiRoundtable exclusively at Friday’s practice media availability. “Just understanding that’s what I do best. My playmaking and ability to make the other four guys on the floor better is what I do best. Coach Lucas helped me pull that out with the highest ability and I just had to take that and bring it here.”

In the first two games of the preseason, the All-Atlantic Coast Conference Second Team honoree has taken advantage of every opportunity. However, Donaldson erupted for the rest of the league to see in Thursday’s 128-118 win over the New Orleans Pelicans. He finished with 12 points on 62.5 percent shooting and two assists in 15 minutes – all in the second half.

The Heat have been searching the market for playmaking depth, but the solution might be in the building already. Donaldson has similar traits to Heat starter Davion Mitchell. They’re both undersized guards, but make up for the lack of size with intense defense.

Last season with the Hurricanes, Donaldson had five games with at least 10 assists. He hadn’t accomplished that in previous stops through college. Donaldson had the scoring ability, but the playmaking sharpened and was a big emphasis in Coral Gables. He played a significant role in the Hurricanes’ historic 26-9 turnaround season, including a return to March Madness. Despite falling short of the Sweet 16, it marked the start of a new chapter within the program with a new standard and foundation.

Donaldson’s two-way contract allows him to play up to 50 regular-season games. He could still see time at Sioux Falls and play for the Skyforce, the Heat’s G League affiliate. However, Donaldson’s opportunity could come sooner, as veteran Dru Smith suffered a right calf strain injury during training camp at Florida Atlantic University. As the Heat look for playmaking behind Mitchell, the former Hurricanes star could emerge as an answer.

Opening Day is nearly two weeks away – Oct. 20. The Heat can maximize Donaldson’s two-way contract before a potential promotion is discussed. He will have the opportunities to prove himself throughout the season.

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