Justise Winslow
Among potential Heat players, Justise Winslow is only a few years removed from his eligibility for Team USA’s under-19 bunch.
But entering his fourth season in the NBA, getting the jump on his international career would be a mutually beneficial partnership.
Two years ago, Winlsow, then 20, would have been an apt selection, having an obvious connection to then-head coach Mike Krzyzewski. Now, his only confidant would be Craig, but Winslow would still find his role.
Despite what much of the roster looks like, not every member has found individual accolades.
Members like Booker and Middleton have yet to hit their stride in All-Star game appearances or All-NBA teams. Instead, their inclusion in the roster trends towards what will be for coming Olympics.
Booker, Middleton, and the rest of Team USA’s under-25 collective are often heralded as the un-tradeables on their respective NBA teams. Building blocks for the future, Team USA is a training ground to measure how well they handle the international spotlight.
Winslow is similarly in that so-called un-tradeable category, with Riley recently indicating he’ll be on Miami’s roster for the long run.
Riley said #Heat looks at Justise Winslow as an “anchor” in the franchise.
— Manny Navarro (@Manny_Navarro) July 27, 2018
Giving Winslow the chance to perform alongside some of the NBA’s best at such an early stage in his career would be a perfect proving ground for him. Winslow is often considered to have the tools to be successful in this league, though unfortunately bouts with injury have stunted his gains.
Suiting up next to a bevy of All-Stars and future Hall of Famers could certainly be the deciding factor in how Winslow’s career manifests moving forward.