NBA: 7 players who absolutely need to breakout in 2018-19

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MIAMI, FL – DECEMBER 14: Justise Winslow #20 of the Miami Heat looks on during a game against the Indiana Pacers at American Airlines Arena on December 14, 2016 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

Justise Winslow, Miami Heat

Perhaps somewhat unfairly, when the Miami Heat drafted Justise Winslow with the 10th overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, many compared the Duke standout to James Harden. It was a bit of a stretch at the time, but after his impressive performance in leading the Blue Devils to a National Championship victory, it was at the very least possible.

Three years into his NBA career, and that is no longer the case. In fact, he’s become almost the butt of the joke from that year’s draft – mostly because Danny Ainge tried to give the Charlotte Hornets and Heat their kitchen sink in order to draft Winslow, before ultimately being waved off.

Nevertheless, Winslow desperately needs a breakout season in 2018-19. Not just because of those early career comparisons, but also because the Heat could use a star. And if Winslow can turn to corner in transitioning from a good rotation player to a potential star, it would change all the math for Miami moving forward.

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