NBA: Biggest X-factor for all 30 teams in the 2019-20 season

Miami Heat: Justise Winslow

Always a plus at the defensive end, Justise Winslow discovered a new level of effectiveness on offense last year.

Having already increased his 3-point efficiency to a respectable level, Erik Spoelstra asked his forward to create more of the Miami Heat‘s offense and it led to career-highs in both points and assists per game.

The Heat have always believed in Winslow’s potential, as evidenced by the rejection of draft-day trade in 2015 with Boston that would’ve netted six picks — including four first-rounders.

It’s taken some time, but there’s a formula Spo seems to have unlocked that could put his young win in position to have a breakout season.

Winslow was part of a balanced Heat attack last year where no single-player truly dominate the basketball. Now with Jimmy Butler in town, a clear hierarchy is in place that may force him off the ball.

Winslow has become a credible outside shooter at 37.8 percent over the last two seasons, but being stationed beyond the arc isn’t exactly his bread and butter.

He’s a creator who felt empowered to run the show last season but may feel less inclined alongside a four-time All-Star. It’s a task that falls on the head coach to keep Winslow engaged offensively to better foster his unearthed talents.

This does not, however, absolve Winslow of responsibilities. He must continue to hone his craft and take another step forward in his development.

Under the right set of circumstances, though, he may wind up a favorite for the Most Improved Player trophy in getting the Heat back into the playoffs.