Dru Smith keeps impressing with his defense 'One of the more valuable defensive players'

The Miami Heat have always been a team that focuses on working hard. They have some star players over the years who have stood out on the offensive end. However, the Heat Culture also encourages playing hard-nosed defense.

For players who are not high-level scorers, they have to make up for it by being impactful on defense. That is the story for Dru Smith on the Heat roster, as he has become an Erik Spoelstra favorite.

Spoelstra loves what he sees from Smith

On the Heat roster, there are plenty of superb defenders, especially at the perimeter. Davion Mitchell is probably the standout defender for most people, but he is not the only one. 

Smith has cemented himself in Spoelstra's rotation by being a workhorse. While he is a smaller player, Smith has become one of the most valuable defenders on the roster. He is not the most prominent player, but he is making an impact.

MORE: Why Erik Spoelstra is encouraged by the dynamic between Tyler Herro and Norman Powell

Moving forward, the Heat have one of the most versatile defensive lineups in the league. Bam Adebayo is their defensive anchor, which is already a positive for the Heat due to his versatility.

Spoelstra is glad that a player like Smith is also stepping up whenever his name is called upon. As soon as he enters the game, Smith has made contributions for the Heat.

"Dru was great in both games. He had 5 steals last night, but i think it was 13/14 deflections. It was crazy. Tonight, he was all over the place and just that steady presence," Spoelstra said after their win on Sunday.

"Dru found a way to get to the right spot... Defensively, he's pretty good, particularly against perimeter pick-and-rolls. He was super disciplined, super aware, and that's why he's one of the more valuable defensive players in this league."

As the Heat pick up their form as one of the best teams in the league, their defense continues to be a bright spot. As long as they can get stops against the top teams, it will be a dangerous matchup to play against the Heat.

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