Heat's Winslow to undergo shoulder surgery, likely out for season
The campaign appears to be over for Justise Winslow.
The Miami Heat small forward is set to undergo surgery Thursday on his right shoulder, which will likely sideline him for the remainder of 2016-17.
The 20-year-old swingman suffered a torn labrum on the last play of Friday's loss to the Boston Celtics. He missed the last two games due to the ailment, which was initially diagnosed as a stinger.
The 10-26 Heat have been absolutely decimated by injuries this season, with every player missing time so far and seven players currently on the IR list. As of Sunday, they're third in the league with 103 games missed due to injury.
Head coach Erik Spoelstra feels sorry for his starter at the three-spot, considering the effort he put into improving his game during the offseason.
"I really feel for him because I know how much time he put in this summer," the bench boss said. "He's put in as much time as anybody. I know how much it means for him to be here (with his team) and be able to make an impact."
Winslow suited up in only 18 of 36 games, averaging 10.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.4 steals in 34.7 minutes per game. He struggled with his shot even more so than in his rookie year, posting a 35.4 percent clip from the field and 20 percent from long range.
Josh Richardson, Rodney McGruder, James Johnson, and Luke Babbitt could see more floor time with Winslow out.