Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside will return tonight as the Heat host the Orlando Magic after missing the last 11 games due to injury, according to the Sun-Sentinel.

The last game Whiteside played in was back on Nov. 28 against the Cleveland Cavaliers. He's been out with a bone bruise in his left knee ever since.

Whiteside is averaging 14.9 points, 12.7 rebounds and 1.6 blocks in 15 games played this season. The Heat have gone 6-5 in his absence. They were only 8-7 with him in the lineup.

With Whiteside out, the minutes were going to rookie Bam Adebayo and free-agent pickup Kelly Olynyk, who has shined at times with the opportunity.

Related NewsArticle continues below
Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) celebrates after scoring against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the third quarter during game three in the second round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Chase Center.
Ranking 3 best Jonathan Kuminga free agency destinations if he leaves Warriors
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) reacts after fouling a Houston Rockets player in the first half at Footprint Center.
Suns’ Kevin Durant makes 1 wish for 2025 WNBA season

Whiteside is a borderline All-Star center at his best so his return to the lineup certainly gives the Heat something they need. After a magical run to finish last season, Miami hasn't been exactly the same so far this season, starting out 17-16 and currently on the outside looking in on the Eastern Conference playoff picture.

Dealing with injuries to the likes of Whiteside and even point guard Goran Dragic has played a role in the less than great start.

Getting back to full strength will surely go a long way, but the Heat aren't really there yet. James Johnson will be out tonight vs. the Magic still.