Looks like Hassan Whiteside may be considering to play in Taiwan. Ok doesn’t matter what that says, the thing I’m wondering is:
Yes, the league has moved on from big men that can’t shoot, like Whiteside and Howard. Even Cousins. But are we also saying, the league, with its +400 roster spots to fill, has zero need of a minimum vet that can bring some instant rim protection to the second unit? Maybe even score a bit on a good day? I don’t think it’s far-fetched to say a former all defensive team player can still give you 5 boards a game on $1m or less.
Many active NBA players spend years on the bench - so these teams would rather have a piece of furniture than e.g. Whiteside, who was kinda decent backing up Gobert just 1.5 years ago? I don’t get that rationale.
what is less reported about the guys you just mentioned are that they are fucking headcases.
when youre putting up 20 and 12 and teams have to game plan for you then its worth you being a diva and a locker room cancer. But when you become a legitimate liability on both ends and your only advantage is some rebounding? Nah, keep that shit far away from my team.
That is why any former all star/all nba talent has to play overseas. because they are awful to be around. Guys like PJ tucker, haslem, derrick rose, tristan thompson are washed af but they arent assholes so they can absolutely serve legit purpose as veteran locker room presence.
The guys you just mentioned specifically? complete opposite.