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Miami Heat: 3 updated Hassan Whiteside trade possibilities

By Simon Smith

MILWAUKEE, WI - JANUARY 17: Hassan Whiteside #21 of the Miami Heat reacts to an officials call during the first half of a game against the Milwaukee Bucks at the Bradley Center on January 17, 2018 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
MILWAUKEE, WI - JANUARY 17: Hassan Whiteside #21 of the Miami Heat reacts to an officials call during the first half of a game against the Milwaukee Bucks at the Bradley Center on January 17, 2018 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets have also undergone a shakeup off the court, hiring a new president of basketball operations in Mitch Kupchak, and a new head coach in James Borrego. Therefore, there’s every chance that changes will be also be afoot as it relates to their current roster.

One player who could be on the move is former All-Star center Dwight Howard. Last season, Howard had his most productive year on a per 36 minute basis since his final season with the Orlando Magic in 2011-12. In 81 games, Howard averaged 16.6 points and 12.5 rebounds in 30.4 minutes per game. Notably, the 32-year-old is entering the final year of his three-year, $70.5 million deal.

While the deal makes sense for the Heat, it’s trying to make it appeasing for the Hornets that would be the greatest challenge in pulling off the move. As a sweetener, the Heat would need to include something else, which, in this case, is a future second round pick.

It’s not much, but the Hornets would be getting a younger, slightly better center and snag a second-rounder in the process.

Ultimately, the deal enables the Heat rid themselves of Whiteside, take on board an established quality center in Howard, and improve their cap flexibility moving forward.

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