Miami Heat: Justise Winslow’s Five Best Plays of the Season

Justise Winslow, #20, small forward/shooting guard

Oct 13, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (20) against the Orlando Magic during the second quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Some may argue that Justise Winslow was the story to come out of draft night. The rookie was slated to be selected early on in the evening, but ended up falling to the No. 10 spot, just in time to be scooped up by the Miami Heat.

A 6-foot-7 small forward/shooting guard out of Duke, Winslow spent only one year playing college ball. He averaged 12.6 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.1 assists, and was named ACC Freshman of the Week on February 9. He also led his team to the postseason, and averaged 14.3 points and 9.3 rebounds on the way to a national championship.

The 19-year-old showed professional basketball promise right away.

He averaged 9 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.5 assists during Summer League play, and 6.6 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game in the preseason. However, his apparent stardom went beyond mere numbers on a page.

Winslow’s maturity was obvious from the get-go, causing teammates Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade to comment on his demeanor on multiple occasions. Wade also took the newbie under his wing, and found himself in a mentor role.

By now, Winslow has already established himself as a key player in the Heat’s rotation. And the best part is, this is true on both ends of the floor.

Having guarded the likes of LeBron James, Paul George and James Harden, the defensive powerhouse has proven that no opponent is too much for him. He is physically strong, mentally prepared, and a true team player: he makes sure everyone on the floor with him succeeds.

Another great quality Winslow processes is the fact that he listens; he soaks in the knowledge around him, and applies what he has learned, day in and day out.

As of now, Winslow is putting up 7.5 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists a game. But while he is by no means a stat-machine, he is invaluable to Miami.

So, to welcome the rookie aboard, here are five of his best plays so far this season.

Next: The Daring Duo