Hassan Whiteside: “I Wanted to Come Here for Years”

Portland Trail BlazerHassan Whiteside, acquired in the offseason, spoke to the press during the annual media day, where he was asked about his fit with the team, aboutDamian LillardandCJ McCollum,how he will play alongsideZach Collins.

• Whiteside said he was surprised at the high level playmaking ofDamian LillardandCJ McCollum, especially their passing.
• As to what he contributes to the team, Whiteside mentioned the “urgent need” at center, and that he looks to bring some toughness in the paint alongside shot-blocking.
• Regarding the team, Whiteside stated that his new teammates are great guys, with a close bond already, and that everyone is buying in and working hard. He said he has been here since August 15th, the first day he was allowed to come play with coaches.
• On the biggest adjustment he has had to make, he focused on Stotts’ flow offense and learning the plays, noting that, “It’s not really a play call...It’s just reads out of motion and flow, and I’m really liking it.” He said that Stotts’ offense means that he can get the ball more and focus on being a playmaker instead of just catching lobs in the middle.
• Whiteside said that one of his goals is for the team to be top 10 in defense.
• OnZach Collins: “He is a phenomenal shot blocker...even if he gets dunked on, he keeps going, keeps jumping...it wears on guys.” He said thatCollinsis the best shot blocker he has played alongside, so he is looking forward to how the paint looks like with the two of them on defense.
• He has already socialized with bothLillardandMcCollumoutside of the gym, noting that, “It doesn’t matter where you live if you aren’t happy on the court. I wanted to come here for years.”