It seems that the history keeps repeating itself for the Miami Heat as they once again started the season with two wins and three losses. Last year, their 2-3 start turned into an 11-30 record in the first half of the season, but the team is hoping to avoid falling into such a deep hole this time. However, the Heat will face a tough challenge as Hassan Whiteside has been out since the opening game of the season.
Beside Whiteside, the Miami Heat cannot count on Rodney McGruder as he will be out at least three months. McGruder has to have a surgery and it is hard to tell when he will return to action.
Even though Dion Waiters has appeared in all five games of the season so far, he is dealing with an ankle injury and it doesn't seem he's getting better.
In total, the Heat are dealing with three major injuries as three starters are affected by them. After a fantastic finish of the last season, Miami will face many obstacles on their road to the playoffs.
Hassan Whiteside's injury is serious
Hassan Whiteside was simply amazing in the last two seasons with the Miami Heat. First, he led the league in blocked shots, then he became a rebounding leader. Whiteside established himself as one of the best centers in the entire league, and that is what earned him a maximum contract last year.
Whiteside opened the season with a fantastic performance against the Orlando Magic.
Even though the Heat ended up losing the season opener, the center was at the top of his game. Whiteside scored 26 points in the Heat loss, but he also scored record-breaking 22 rebounds. With his performance, the center set the Heat record for the best points-rebounds double-double in a season opener. Furthermore, he made his first career three-pointer.
He bruised his left knee during the season opener and he's been sidelined ever since then. At first, everyone thought it was just a minor injury for the big man, but it appears that it's something serious. Hassan Whiteside is very doubtful for the Miami's next game. The Heat will host the Minnesota Timberwolves Monday night, and without Whiteside, it will be difficult to stop the opponent, especially Karl-Anthony Towns.
Heat vs. Timberwolves
Miami Heat are 32-22 against the Minnesota Timberwolves in their all-time matchups. Last season, Miami swept the Timberwolves, which was their ninth regular-season sweep.
Whiteside's absence will put Minnesota at a big advantage, but there is no doubt the Heat can win this game if they fight hard and give their maximum effort.
