Golden State Warriors: 6 veteran centers to target with MLE

By Tony Pesta | Oct 5, 2020

TORONTO, ON - JANUARY 22: Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors reacts after scoring a basket during second half their NBA game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Scotiabank Arena on January 22, 2020 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) /

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6. Hassan Whiteside

After being drafted in the second round of the 2010 NBA Draft, Hassan Whiteside suddenly made the jump as a seriously impactful defender in2015. His rise to stardom with the Miami Heat was sudden – and his fall from grace was just as swift.

Whiteside was a player who was dominating opponents with his size during his first few seasons with Miami. However, opposing teams quickly learned how to plan against him and his productivity has dropped significantly since then.

But, Whiteside is still a worthy contributor. He is one of the few seven-footers capable of staying on the floor against modern playstyles. While he is a liability on offense due to his lack of shooting, Whiteside is able to remain impactful by rebounding and defending at a high level.

Whiteside averaged 15.5 points, 13.5 rebounds and 2.9 blocks per game last season. He is entering free agency off a $24 million dollar contract, far above what the Warriors will be able to offer him. Nonetheless, the market might not be too hot for a player like Whiteside – leaving the door open to a one-year deal with the Warriors before testing his value again next season.

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