For some time now, Hassan Whiteside has been making headlines with his defensive gems for the Miami Heat. He has transformed into a shot-blocking demon, a pillar when one thinks about how the defensive end of the team has improved by leaps and bounds.
Aside from that, however, his name has also surfaced on trade rumors lately. With DeMarcus Cousins and Dwight Howard believed to be on the move, the Heat could be likely destinations. But in exchange, Whiteside has been part of those talks which somehow doesn't make sense.
Whiteside is an obvious up and coming seven-footer who should blossom in the coming years. While Cousins and Howard have already proven that, adding more stars to a team that has had its share of chemistry problems could be fatal.
As it is right now, the Heat have been humming. The team is back on track for a postseason appearance and Whiteside is one of the reasons why such is happening.
Inserting Howard or Cousins could be a grand boost but as everyone knows, this doesn't follow all the time. One just has to look at how Howard fared with the Los Angeles Lakers with Kobe Bryant and it is pretty clear that too much talent could kill.
If the Heat indeed trade off Whiteside, it will not solely be him moving. It could involve other players and possibly draft picks and some money considerations. Whiteside doesn't carry a hefty paycheck, hence the reason why.
Taking in either Howard or Cousins will also give the Heat added problems. With a maxed out payroll so far, adding two players who carry fat salaries will only add to their luxury tax woes.
With seemingly a lot of negatives, one has to wonder why the Heat are even considering it. Whiteside is a future for the ball club and instead of involving his name on trade rumors, they may want to do the opposite and place him on the protected list.
