Erik Spoelstra: Hassan Whiteside Leaving Bench Last Night Was ‘Unacceptable’

By Brady Klopfer
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Updated: December 5, 2018

Hassan Whiteside and Nikola Vucevic Miami Heat

Pedro Portal / Miami Herald

Hassan Whiteside made headlines on Tuesday night, but not the type of headlines that players typically strive for.

In the waning moments of the Miami Heat’s blowout loss to the Orlando Magic, Whiteside left the team’s bench and headed to the locker room. He remained there until the game concluded, but exited the locker room without meeting with media.

Whiteside’s early departure did not sit well with the team. On Wednesday, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra criticized Whiteside’s behavior, while noting that the organization handled the matter.

Erik Spoelstra said Hassan Whiteside exhibited “unacceptable behavior” leaving bench early last night. Added matter was handled internally.
— David Furones (@DavidFurones_) December 5, 2018

Whitside struggled for portions of the game, and did not play during the fourth quarter. It seems likely that he was frustrated by his and the team’s performance and Spoelstra’s rotations. In all, he totaled 12 points, nine rebounds and three blocks in 25 minutes of action.

For now, it is unclear how the organization will handle the issue. It is possible that Spoelstra and Whiteside will merely talk, but it’s also possible that the organization will fine or suspend the starting center.

Miami’s next game is on Friday, Dec. 7, when the team begins a six-game road trip against the Phoenix Suns.