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2016 NBA Rookie Ladder: Is Kristaps Porzingis Struggling?

By Nathan Grubel

Mar 4, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) reacts during the first half of a game against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) reacts during the first half of a game against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 4, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (20) shoots against the defense of Philadelphia 76ers forward Robert Covington (33) and forward Elton Brand (42) during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (20) shoots against the defense of Philadelphia 76ers forward Robert Covington (33) and forward Elton Brand (42) during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

8. Justise Winslow, Miami Heat

Justise Winslow isn’t operating under a large usage percentage as a rookie on a playoff team but his effectiveness when he’s on the floor is undeniable because of his defensive presence.

He can switch onto the other team’s best player and spell Luol Deng for minutes. He’s not a great shooter yet nor does he really have any true playmaking skills at this stage of his development, but he’s a young scrapper capable of playing big minutes on a competitive squad.

He’ll play a part in Miami’s long-term future, but for now he’s a fine rotation piece looking for a more significant role as he improves offensively.

Next: Denver's Future Center?