Nov 10, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Nick Young (0) is pressured by Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (20) during the first half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
4. When will Justise Winslow win his first Defensive Player of the Year award?
Allana: This question would be easier to answer if he was not also sharing the court with teammate Hassan Whiteside. Their games may be vastly different, but there is no arguing that they are both defensive powerhouses. So far, Whiteside is averaging roughly 12 rebounds and 3 blocks a game, with Winslow at 4.7 rebounds. However, Winslow is young. And while Whiteside can be a bit…reluctant to take advice at times, the rookie soaks up knowledge like a sponge. He also makes an impact in a way that Whiteside does not necessarily: off the stat sheet. With him, at least for now, it can be less about the numbers and more about how he changes things around him while on the floor.
Wes: It’s amazing how good Winslow is defensively already. Already this season, he’s defended James Harden and LeBron James and held them below their averages. He doesn’t shy away from anyone and does a terrific job of defending without fouling. Winslow is Miami’s best perimeter defender already, and will be among the league’s very best shortly. As far as winning the award, fellow small forwards Kawhi Leonard and Draymond Green already have a head start. At this rate, however, he’ll be in that conversation as early as next season.
Chris: He’s already the Heat’s best defender, but I don’t think he’ll get serious consideration for the award as a bench player. Kawhi Leonard and Draymond Green are key starters on championship contenders, and they already have the credentials. Rudy Gobert will also get a look. I think the earliest could be next season, when he should be the starter at small forward – assuming the Heat don’t add a certain All-Star. But I don’t doubt that he’ll win at least one. For a 19 year old, he plays like a 10-year veteran. Thanks, Charlotte!
Kris: I wish I had an answer for this, because it is certainly possible. He’s very smart, and also instinctual, which is a perfect combination of traits for a defender. I just see guys like Kwahi and Draymond and think they’ll always have more consideration because of their established status in the league. But Justise could certainly join the ranks with more consistency and playing in big moments.
Ehsan: It won’t be coming off the bench this season and could be held off longer if the Heat somehow add Kevin Durant and keep Dwyane Wade in the starting lineup. But as he gain more experience and the Heat play well in front of National audiences, he will get the credit he deserves sooner than later. As for the award, probably in the next 3-5 years. He does face some stiff competition.