Although Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside is expected to pick up his upcoming contract option, the veteran may not be in town for long.
According to the Tim Reynolds of the Associated Press, Whiteside is likely to ask for a trade after opting into the final year of his current contract.
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Whiteside, 30, has struggled to become a consistent contributor in the Heat’s rotation over the last few years. Yet, he has found ways to still be productive. The big man put up 12.3 points, 11.3 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game last season.
While the center’s numbers on the court aren’t awful, it’s Whiteside’s financial numbers that are hurting the Heat. The 7-footer is the Heat’s highest paid player, and will make a whopping $27.1 million next season if he does opt in.
Although both parties’ messy relationship looks like it’s coming to an end, the Heat helped Whiteside make a name for himself in the league with their highly successful developmental program. Now, they’ll have to help the defensive stalwart find a new home.
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