Hassan Whiteside Injury: Updates on Heat Center's Hip and Return

Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside suffered a hip injury on Jan. 20 against the Washington Wizards and had been out ever since. However, he is ready to return. 

Continue for updates.

---

Whiteside Active vs. Mavericks

Wednesday, Feb. 3

Whiteside was available to play on Wednesday against Dallas, according to Ethan J. Skolnick of the Miami Herald. 

---

Whiteside Comments on Injury

Wednesday, Jan. 20

Whiteside told the Heat that he knew something was wrong after he suffered a non-contact injury Wednesday night. Taking a few steps out toward the wing, Whiteside crumpled on the floor in pain: 

---

Whiteside Provides Heat With Dominant Defensive Presence

Whiteside has been healthy for most of the 2015-16 season, missing limited time because of some knee troubles. 

The fourth-year center has become a menace on the defensive end, leading the NBA in blocks with 3.9 per game this year. With an ever-improving offensive game as well, Whiteside was making a case for the Eastern Conference All-Star team:

He's anchored a defense that is ranked second in the NBA, allowing just over 95 points per game. His presence on the floor makes the Heat a much more formidable defensive side, and in his absence, teams could feel more inclined to attack the rim.

With the Heat holding on to a middle spot in the Eastern Conference playoff standings, they'll need their best defensive player if they want to stay in the postseason hunt. 

Stats courtesy of Basketball-Reference.com.