The Miami Heat and head coach Erik Spoelstra faced a number of challenges during the 2018-19 season, least of which included a myriad of injuries to key players like Goran Dragic and Dion Waiters.
With a number of guys out of the rotation, Spoelstra had to get creative. The result was a lineup that saw forward Justise Winslow playing the point guard position and acting as Miami's primary ball handler, a strategy that seemed to fit Winslow's play style.
The Heat did not end up trading Dragic despite the veteran being on an expiring contract, and the presumption was that he was returning to South Beach to be the starting point guard.
However, Winslow has indicated that he will still play point guard next season:
NEW: Justise Winslow’s plan this season? ‘To play point guard’ for the Heat https://t.co/Fh2r2VcPP8
— Anthony Chiang (@Anthony_Chiang) September 15, 2019
Winslow said today his plan is to play PG this season. Interesting because Riley said in June that Dragic is starting PG and Spo has been publicly reluctant to commit to Winslow at PG with Dragic healthy. Should be interesting to see play out
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) September 15, 2019
Winslow had his best season as a pro last year, averaging career highs in points (12.6) and assists (4.3) while also shooting over 37 percent from beyond the arc on nearly four attempts per game.
Meanwhile, Dragic had one of his worst seasons in nearly a decade even when he was healthy. Dragic saw a sharp decline both in scoring and shooting percentages, and his reputation as a scoring point guard could indeed lead to more run for Winslow at the one.
The Heat are going to need perimeter players that can space the floor and make plays for Jimmy Butler now that the four-time All-Star has come to South Beach.
Though Dragic could return to form if he is healthy, Winslow might provide more versatility and prove to be a better complement to Butler on the court.
Follow Us
Subscribe