Miami Heat: Projections and Comparisons for Justise, J-Rich, and BAM!

MIAMI, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 27: (L-R) Bam Adebayo, Dwyane Wade, Josh Richardson and Justise Winslow of the Miami Heat pose before a game against the Golden State Warriors at American Airlines Arena on February 27, 2019 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Cassy Athena/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 27: (L-R) Bam Adebayo, Dwyane Wade, Josh Richardson and Justise Winslow of the Miami Heat pose before a game against the Golden State Warriors at American Airlines Arena on February 27, 2019 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Cassy Athena/Getty Images)
2 of 4
Miami Heat
(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Justise Winslow

When thinking about Winslow, the first thing you notice is the sheer tenacity and desire he seems to play with whenever he is on the floor. This is evident in his offensive game through his intense determination to attack in most, if not all,  instances.

Although he is drastically improved as an outside shooter, he often finds success at finishing among the game’s giants in the paint, which again points to his determination and tenacity.

Outside of being one of the largest main ball handlers in the league, his defensive prowess and abilities also really set him apart from other players.

It isn’t just his defense that stands out though, because even at 6-7, he still has a rope tight handle with what seems like quite a few silky smooth moves in his arsenal.

As mentioned earlier, he has fully begun to compliment his tremendous ball skills and attacking ability, with a pretty good outside shot this season. These are just a few factors to consider when projecting for Justise.

Ceiling — a slightly less athletic “Penny” Hardaway

Floor — a more consistent Lance Stephenson

When looking at Winslow’s current game, he oozes the potential of a Penny Hardaway.

A 6-foot-6ish lead guard who can not only make all the plays for his teammates but could at any time break you down off the dribble on the way to the paint.

Eerily similar as well, Hardaway was a guy who started to develop a smooth jump shot at the NBA level faster than most imagined. This is right on par with Winslow, as many even this year questioned his shot making ability.

At worst, Winslow will still be able to give you the same thing that he is giving you now, which isn’t quite superstar quality, but still really good.

He will also give you these same contributions without ever feeling as though he might cost you a possession, or even a game. These are all very Lance Stephenson-like qualities, however, Lance never quite fully lived up to his potential, but can still make a boneheaded play or two.