MIAMI – On Monday it was NBA writers figuratively bringing down Hassan Whiteside.
On Tuesday, it was his own coaches literally doing it.
It's all part of the team's strategy ahead of game 2 against the Hornets. Local 10 cameras caught coaches hacking the Heat big man and holding him down as he grabbed rebounds and attempted putbacks via layups or dunks.
The playoffs are a more physical brand of basketball and Heat coaches clearly want their big man prepared.
Monday, Whiteside expressed disappointment at his third-place finish for defensive player of the year honors.
On Tuesday, however, the Heat big man was ready to move on and focus on game 2 against Charlotte.