NBA: Whiteside Swatting Away Shots But Blocking Himself As Well From Stardom

Several years ago, there was no denying that Hassan Whiteside had a bright NBA future ahead. The only problem is that he struggled to be consistent on both ends of the floor. Off-court distractions did not help and pulled him down. With the Blazers, he is showing glimpses of his old self. The only problem now is whether he can be consistent performing at an All-Star level.

Against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Whiteside was a monster on both ends. He scored 16 points but hauled down 22 rebounds and registered a game-high seven blocks. For those who have followed the career of the 30-year-old seven-footer, his defensive prowess is something that helped him make a name for himself. However, he has yet to prove that he can do that every night, NBC Sports reported.

His Blazers teammates believe that they can be hard to stop if Whiteside comes out with those numbers every night. Damian Lillard knows how it would make a difference, admitting they have better chances of winning games if the 33rd pick of the 2010 NBA Draft does his part.

"On both ends of the floor – making free throws, making jumpers, being in the paint, getting us extra possessions. Coming up big with all those blocks and changing shots. He's been huge for us," said Lillard.

Portland got Whiteside for his defensive genius but need that in each game. It has been said that no one has an off day on the defensive end, meaning it may all depend on the mood Whiteside is in. Of course, he cannot be entirely blamed. With most teams focusing on outside sniping, the 7-footer has lower chances of challenging opposing big men playing down low.

"In the old days it would have been amazing for me, for sure," said Whiteside.

From the looks of it, Whiteside is likely to finish the current NBA season with the Blazers. Come the summer, it will be a totally different story. The 2017 NBA rebounding leader will become an unrestricted free agent and is expected to be dangled offers.

If he shows consistency in blocking shots or controlling the boards, Portland may reward him with a lucrative deal. If not, other teams could pitch to him. The fact is that he has the height and this is something that cannot be taught. However, the zeroes in his contract could be affected if he does not find a way to consistently put up the usual numbers expected from him.