Before Hassan Whiteside turned out to be the player that he is today with the Miami Heat, he was once part of the Memphis Grizzlies back in 2014. However, they cut him twice in October and November, just two days after signing him. The team's head coach back then was Dave Joerger, who recently recalled how it was like to let go of him, via Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.

The current Sacramento Kings head coach talked about having two other experienced centers which led to them deciding to part ways with the 28-year-old Marshall product. Joerger then said that he enjoyed the opportunity to work with Whiteside and that he is happy for his success now.

“It was tough on us because with the contract positions and rosters numbers we had, and we had Pau Gasol and Kosta [Koufos], experienced guys in the NBA. In today’s game, it’s pretty difficult to play him and Marc Gasol together, even though Marc can shoot the three. The game’s being played with one big and four guys — you are either a shooter or a playmaker. You must be one or the other.”

But… “I’m happy for all those guys — James [Johnson], Wayne [Ellington], Hassan — that the Heat rewarded them for their performance and their work ethic. They’re a great organization. You cheer for those guys. I’m fired up for them and their family. Hassan is a sweetheart human being. Really enjoyed being around him.”

Whiteside is now widely considered as one of the best big men in the league today. His vast improvement on both ends of the floor has made the Heat a dark horse in the Eastern Conference. He has also emerged as an intimidating presence inside the paint with his ability to change shots with his mere presence. This year, the former All-Defensive Second Team member is having another solid season, with averages of 14.7 points, 11.8 rebounds and 1.9 blocks in 26.1 minutes per game.

Joerger and the Kings will have the chance to see him play up close on Thursday, and will have the unenviable task of trying to limit his production. The Heat are currently in fourth place in the East and will do their best to win on the night to move up the standings. With Whiteside anchoring their defense, and a possible revenge game for him, it could be a very long night for his former coach and his team.