NBA Rumors: Golden State Warriors eye Hassan Whiteside Max Contract; Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson Sign Big Man

By Mitch de Leon
Hassan Whiteside
Nov 1, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside (right) celebrates with Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (left) after Winslow made a three point basket during the second half at American Airlines Arena. The Heat won 109-89. Mandatory Credit: USA Today-Sports

The Golden State Warriors found themselves at a loss for words when the Cleveland Cavaliers snatched the NBA title from right under their noses in Game 7 of the Finals. Coming back from a 3-1 deficit, LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love shocked Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson with a historic performance in the hardwood court. While the Cleveland Cavaliers enjoy their 2016 NBA Finals victory, the Golden State Warriors are scouring the free agency market for a star who could help them regain their throne in the NBA.

Next to the Kevin Durant free agency train, the skills of Hassan Whiteside have attracted a number of NBA teams. While he initially shared his desire to play with the Miami Heat next season, the big man also noted that he is open to other offers. Whiteside also pointed out that although his time with the Dwyane Wade team gave him the boost to advance his career, he believes that making the best decision to benefit him personally is the way to go about his free agency period.

"I really don't think it's about loyalty -- I think it's just about [finding] the best situation for myself," shared Whiteside of his free agency. He added, "I didn't say (Miami) wasn't the best situation, but we're going to see what happens. It's not like I'm really counting the Heat out or counting on another team. It's just open."

Whiteside also noted that this period in his NBA career is unique. According to the Miami Heat big man, the fact that NBA teams are now pursuing him made him realize the value of his hard work and patience in the league. In a nutshell, Whiteside describes this period as "flattering."

He shared, "I find it flattering, because in my past, I was trying to call those teams and now it's the other way around. It's a flattering experience and I'm thankful for this opportunity."

If reports are to be believed, then Whiteside must be extremely flattered by now as the Golden State Warriors are said to be expressing extreme interest in signing him. With the injury of Andrew Bogut in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Stephen Curry team felt the disadvantage of not having a big man to help them out. While Draymond Green tried his best to fulfill the need, the Golden State Warriors still needed Bogut's presence to make an impact inside.

This is where Hassan Whiteside comes in. The Miami Heat star proved his worth in the hardwood court when he showed the importance of having a dominant center in games. With his size and skill, Whiteside served as a crucial piece in the games of the Miami Heat during the NBA playoffs. Hence, the Golden State Warriors are attracted to the possibility of a big man like Whiteside in their roster.

"The Warriors believe they can't thrive without a center who attacks the rim and scores inside," reported the Basketball GM. "Golden State is considering pursuing Al Horford, Joakim Noah and Hassan Whiteside."

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