NBA Miami Heat

Miami Heat May Have Answer to Front Court Problems

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By @ShaneRantSports

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The Miami Heat snapped a four-game skid with a victory Sunday night over the Brooklyn Nets, 88-84. It was not the best game for Miami as they shot under 50 percent from the field and turned the ball over 14 times, but Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh played well as a duo, combining for 51 points and shooting over 50 percent. It was a much needed win for the organization and the first of 2015 as it comes the night after the Heat’s worst loss of the season by 36 points.

Enough of my rumbling and allow me to get to my point. Besides a victory, Erik Spoelstra can take away another bright spot from Sunday evening — the fact that he may have the answer to his front court issues. The answer resides in the form of Hassan Whiteside. The second-year player out of Marshall has suddenly come on strong for the Heat when greatly needed.

The center recorded his first career double-double against the Nets with 11 points and 10 rebounds, but he didn’t stop there. Whiteside added a career high five blocks. You may be yelling at the computer screen “it’s one stinkin’ game.” And you’re right. So, I will back up my argument that Whiteside should become starting center for Miami with the following statistic. Over the last five games, the seven-footer has averaged 7.8 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.4 blocks, all career highs. This has also been the first time in his career Whiteside has been allowed to flourish.

I don’t expect Spoelstra to jump on the Whiteside bandwagon and start the kid next game, but I sense that it is coming soon. Miami has obviously struggled in the front court with Bosh’s injury, Josh McRoberts gone for the year and Chris Andersen struggling lately. Whiteside starting at center alongside Bosh may be the answer. It will take pressure off of Bosh in the post and on defense because everyone knows the Heat badly need a post defender. Pat Riley should still be looking for a trade or player to pick up, but Whiteside may stop the bleeding momentarily.

Shane Phillips is an NBA Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow Shane on Twitter @ShaneRantSports, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network Google. You can also email Shane at [email protected].

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