Smith Returns to Heat with Two-Way Contract Following Injury-Briefed Season
In a twist of fate, Dru Smith has found himself back with the Miami Heat after agreeing to a two-way contract on Monday. The move comes following a turbulent 2023-24 season, which was abruptly cut short due to a significant injury.
Smith's promising season was derailed when he tore his right ACL during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers in November. The injury occurred in an unfortunate incident where Smith slipped off a raised portion of the floor near the Cavaliers' bench.
At the time of his injury, Smith had become an integral part of Miami's rotation, featuring in nine of the team's first 15 games. Despite the setback, the Heat assured that they would support him through his rehabilitation process.
In a bid to shore up their roster, the Heat signed veteran guard Patty Mills in March, a move that necessitated waiving Smith from the team. However, the Heat's commitment to Smith remained unwavering. "The team wasn't giving up on him," Coach Erik Spoelstra said, emphasizing the organization's belief in Smith’s potential and determination.
During his stint with the Heat, Smith averaged 4.3 points per game. Over the past two seasons, he has appeared in 24 NBA games, splitting his tenure between the Miami Heat and the Brooklyn Nets, where he played 14 and 10 games respectively. Smith, now 26, has showcased his resilience and adaptability throughout his professional journey.
The two-way contract with the Heat offers Smith a unique opportunity to gradually regain his form. This arrangement allows players to seamlessly alternate between the NBA and the G League, providing a valuable platform for Smith to work his way back to full fitness and prove his mettle.
As Smith embarks on this new chapter with the Heat, his journey serves as a testament to his perseverance and the unwavering support of the team. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he leverages this opportunity to make a comeback on the court.