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10 biggest surprises of the early 2016-17 NBA season

Chip Murphy
10 biggest surprises of the early 2016-17 NBA season
November 21, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) moves the ball against Los Angeles Clippers forward Luc Mbah a Moute (12) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

https://youtu.be/HXY-SH6D92A

The Money Motivated Whiteside

When Pat Riley decided to let Dwyane Wade leave Miami, he was effectively saying yes to a younger team led by Hassan Whiteside. The Miami Heat giving a four-year max contract to Whiteside was risky. He’s only played a season and a half of elite NBA basketball. It’s been anything but a mistake.

Despite Miami’s early struggles, Whiteside has dominated. He’s averaging 18.8 points, 15.9 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks in 33.2 minutes per game. All of his numbers have shot up, including his usage to over 25 percent.

Unfortunately, no one else on the squad can put the ball in the basket. That’s why they’re struggling. They just lost to the Sixers for God’s sake.

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Chip Murphy
Chip Murphy

I'm ESNY's Executive Editor for EliteSportsNY.com.
I cover the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets.
Email: chip.murphy@elitesportsny.com

Chip Murphy covers the NBA for Elite Sports NY. You can find him on Twitter @ChipperMurphy.