Who is the MVP of the team so far?
Frank Urbina: People love to nitpick at every time Hassan Whiteside doesn’t dive for a loose ball, but he’s still easily my team MVP. His numbers are quite frankly absurd, with averages of 18 points, 15.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. He’s also so close to averaging an assist (at 0.9/G currently), which is a huge change from the guy who last season said, “It’s hard to get assists when I’m always the one dunking.”
He may be blocking shots at a lower clip than last year, but that’s because he’s become a smarter defender — he’s taking less bad gambles trying to block every single shot. Opposing teams are shooting 50.9% around the basket against Miami (lowest mark in the NBA), and that has almost all to do with Whiteside’s defensive prowess. Josh McRoberts and Willie Reed certainly aren’t deterring teams from attacking the paint (no offense, guys). Whiteside could be playing better, but he’s been Miami’s healthiest and most effective player by far this season.
Simon Smith: Whiteside. Aside from being still frustrating at times during games in terms of concentration and poor body language, Whiteside has been outstanding. He continues to improve in all aspects of his games, although his improved free-throw shooting has regressed a little to commence the season. Leading the league in rebounding is just one example of the dominance he has displayed.
Allana Tachauer: I have to go with Whiteside here. I mean, he’s averaging 18.2 points and 15.9 rebounds right now. If that doesn’t make your eyes bulge out of your head, I don’t know what will. He is also developing into more of a playmaker, which is something I’m not sure anyone really expected. And he does seem to be taking over the role of a leader quite nicely.
Cory Sanning: It’s quite obvious the MVP has been none other than Whiteside. 18.2 points and 15.9 rebounds per game is insane, and definitely warrants respect. He’s also grown into the leader role quite nicely, and it should pay dividends down the road, especially if he finds a way to add additional post moves to his back-to-the-basket game.
Ivan Mora: Whiteside, without a doubt. He is averaging double doubles and is constantly pulling through after basically being harassed under the rim. His frustration is a concern, but can you blame him. Every game, they’re just so close. He is on another level in that position and the whole league is taking notice. He is easily the favorite Heat MVP so far and I think he’s just getting started.