Whiteside Going Sideways?

Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside burst back onto the NBA scene in January after spending two years away in China, Lebanon, and the D-League. In the face of mounting injuries, specifically to the Heat frontline, Whiteside has been a godsend and he’s delivered starter-level production for a team just on the outside of the playoff picture.

Lately, however, it seems like something’s been up with Hassan. While you always want your big men to be aggressive, lately it’s been a bit much.

First there was his incident last week in a chippy game against the Suns when he tackled Phoenix’s Alex Len after dunking on him. That was followed yesterday by Whiteside straight trucking Boston’s Kelly Olynyk. Naturally, he was ejected in both instances.

So, like, what’s his deal?

As I said above, I don’t mind a little chippiness, but these displays have been blatant and excessive. For a guy that seemed more humble when he came back into the league, I can’t help but wonder what the catalyst has been recently that has made him so aggro.

Whatever the answer is, Whiteside needs to get it together before he finds himself back out of the league. He has been an extraordinary blocker and rebounder, but I’m sure general managers would much rather have a guy that puts up slightly less outrageous numbers if it means they won’t be out on the court using moves better suited for football or wrestling.

One person that’s already annoyed with the antics is Heat star Dwyane Wade. He aired his grievances during the post-game interview of their eventual loss to the Celtics.

I don’t believe Heat GM Pat Riley is going to drop Hassan this season solely based off of these two incidents. But keep in mind that while Whiteside is signed through next year, that year is not guaranteed. If he continues to be a problem now, it’s going to be harder to justify keeping him when McRoberts and Bosh come back next season.