Con: Sample Size
Hassan Whiteside has played 121 games over the past two seasons. Since getting a late start with the Miami Heat in 2014-15, he’s been the most dominant shot-blocker in the NBA, a force on the glass, and an efficient scoring threat.
When one expands the parameters, it’s not very difficult to comprehend why general managers are skeptical of handing Whiteside big money.
As previously alluded to, Whiteside, who was drafted in 2010, has played 121 games over the past two seasons. He’s also played 121 games over the past three seasons, and 121 games over the past four seasons.
During the 2012-13 and 2013-14 NBA seasons, Whiteside was splitting his time between the NBA D-League, Lebanon, and China.
Furthermore, Whiteside played in a combined 19 games during the 2010-11 and 2011-12 seasons. Thus, while his return to the NBA has been delightful, it’s worth noting that the sample size of his greatness is limited.
It’s also worth noting that Whiteside’s 2015-16 season ended because of a knee injury—troubling news for a player who stands at 7’0″ and 265 pounds.
Next: Pro