Miami Heat vs San Antonio Spurs: Game Notes and Quotes
By Wes Goldberg
Defensive Duo: Winslow and Richardson
Rookies Justise Winslow and Josh Richardson are arguable already Miami’s best wing defenders. The two were heralded for defense in college, and it took no time to transition those skills to the NBA.
It’s only preseason, but what they are flashing is consistent and real. I don’t know how often a Pat Riley, Erik Spoelstra-led team will close games with rookies on the court, but if the Heat need to shut someone down, one of them–if not both–is likely the best option they will have.
Josh Richardson and Justise Winslow together on defense... by the end of the season, Spoelstra will be going to that a lot.
— Ethan J. Skolnick, 5 Reasons Sports (@EthanJSkolnick) October 13, 2015
It’s more than just preventing others from scoring, the duo can make magic in the transition game. Getting steals and points in transition that would remind you of another duo from, oh, about five years ago.
Down 87-86 in the final period, Richardson stole the ball and took it the other way to score on the fast break. Winslow, by the way, was to his side the whole time.
Next: Tyler Johnson Back!