Photo: Peter Baba

Nikola Jovic’s season has been marked by inconsistency, but Saturday’s performance offered a reminder of his potential and resilience.

The 22-year-old forward turned in one of the best games of his young career, finishing with 29 points, nine rebounds, seven assists, and two steals – a well-rounded effort that helped fuel the Miami Heat’s victory.

The organization has made it clear that Jovic is a key part of its long-term plans, having signed him to a four-year, $62.4 million contract extension last month.

“I would have lied if I said that the last two weeks were easy because I felt like everything I did was wrong, and I was not helping this team at all,” Jovic told Anthony Chiang of The Miami Herald in a separate interview.

“And I want to thank the coaches and everybody from the team for supporting me and letting me know that I’m important for the team. But my head just wasn’t there. I didn’t know how to help the team.”

Jovic has played 4 seasons for the Heat. He has averaged 8.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 117 regular-season games.