All U Can Heat’s Miami Heat Season Awards

Defensive Player of the Year: Hassan Whiteside

Mar 4, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside (21) defends against Los Angeles Lakers forward Ed Davis (21) the second half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Wes: Whiteside anchored Miami’s defense and allowed them to run guys off the 3-point line and into the lacerated hands of their breakout center. His ability to close in on opponents and block shots was sensational, and opponents learned to fear driving into the paint when he was on the court.

Allana: Also obvious. Hassan Whiteside is HASSANE. Even WITH his lacerated hand, he can put up numbers like 24, 13 and 5. He absolutely dominates the floor and I cannot think of a single player currently, who could take him. If he continues to grow in the manner in which I imagine he will, these next few years are going to be terrific. For both him, and the entire team.

Next: Rookie of the Year