Miami Heat’s Winslow talks to AllUCanHeat about new partnership, more

AllUCanHeat contributor Ivan Mora got a chance to speak with Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow about his new partnership with Met-RX, Dwyane Wade’s return and more.

The Miami Heat are making a last minute playoff push and although they currently sit eighth in the Eastern Conference, the final seeding is still up in the air. Only four losses separate six teams, from the third seed to the eighth, and with less than 15 games left, anything can happen in this last minute shakeup.

One player who has been making strides recently is forward Justise Winslow. His versatile play on both ends of the court has been on full display, as he’s adjusting to his role off the bench.

I recently had the honor of chatting with the former Duke standout about the team’s road to the postseason, and what has changed since the return of Dwyane Wade.

"“There’s a lot of optimism in the locker room. It has been great,” Winslow said on Wade coming back. “For me, when I was a rookie, D-Wade was my mentor on the team. We are truly excited to have that added leadership and experience in the locker room. It’s great to have a guy like that on our side.”"

When asked about if the Heat’s mentality has shifted since Wade rejoined, Winslow was adamant that their mentality has been the same from day one.

"“Our mentality has always been to make the playoffs… continue to work towards that goal. We have to keep fighting and put ourselves into a great position come playoff time. Our team has a chance to compete. I’m a competitor, so I always think my team has a chance to win.”"

There has been an immense change in Winslow’s improvement on the floor, especially his jumpshot. He credits his coaches for this, while adding that hard work is where it all begins.

"“A lot of hard work,” the third-year explained, when asked what the difference maker has been. “A lot of hours in the gym by myself and with the coaches. Waking up early, staying up late. It’s a testament to work ethic and also being willing to learn. I’m glad it’s being displayed on the court.”"

This is nothing new, however. Throughout his career, he has had many teammates praise his work ethic and passion. And he has always seen them as great mentors, too.

"“My biggest mentor? Everyone. A lot of guys. Josh McRoberts, my first two years. Chris Bosh, he was my locker buddy my first year. But honestly, I would be a fool to only say one person. Everyone has taught me a lot. A lot of different players over the years, like Luol Deng, A’mare Stoudemire and of course Udonis Haslem. Everyday I learn something new from him. I’m thankful to always have support in my teammates.”"

We also discussed his new partnership with Met-RX and how this has helped him, as well as other athletes, on the road to recovery from past injuries.

"“For me, the relationship that I have on a personal level with Met-RX has been great. It’s been great getting to know the company and getting to know the people involved. Everything they provide has helped me, especially coming back from injury.”"

Having suffered a torn labrum in his shoulder last January, Winslow was sidelined for the remainder of the 2016-17 season.

"“Getting to know the product on a personal level has been beneficial and important on the road to recovery. It also all depends how you’re trying to shape your body. Adding muscle and getting stronger and getting fit was important, and Met-Rx was a great company for me. You can see short and long term positive effects in your body. More muscle endurance has been great for my career.”"

With Winslow’s comeback has come an increase in player comparisons, particularly likening his game to that of Draymond Green and Kawhi Leonard.

"“I don’t pay too much attention to comparisons,” Winslow said. “To me, it’s understanding my body and what i’m trying to get done on the court. Trying to understand different techniques and use it on the court. Those are great players and I’m honored to be compared to them, but I’m trying to be Justise Winslow and become a great versatile player.”"

So far he has been just that: a great versatile player for the Miami Heat.

Next: Miami Heat guard Tyler Johnson: Then, now and what's to come

With the season winding down, Winslow and Miami will look to climb up the East, before the playoffs tip off in April.