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2016 NBA Rookie Ladder: Midseason Grades

By Nathan Grubel

Jan 17, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) dribbles in the second quarter against the Phoenix Suns forward Markieff Morris (11) at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 17, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) dribbles in the second quarter against the Phoenix Suns forward Markieff Morris (11) at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 17, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (20) pursued Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) around a screen set by Oklahoma City center Steven Adams (12) during the fourth quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 17, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (20) pursued Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) around a screen set by Oklahoma City center Steven Adams (12) during the fourth quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Justise Winslow, Miami Heat

Speaking of growing pains, the transition to the pros hasn’t gone well for Winslow either.

At the start of the season everyone grew excited about Winslow because he showed the ability to score from a variety of spots on the floor and defend at a high level with intensity and energy.

While his defense hasn’t necessarily fallen off (0.91 defensive real plus/minus) his offense is horrific because of his lack of a midrange game and a shaky three-point shot (23.9 percent from deep on the year).

I fully expect Winslow to finish strong this season, but the journey hasn’t been a smooth ride by any means.

Grade: D

Next: Phoenix's Next Sharpshooter