Heat's Hassan Whiteside: Thigh feeling better

Whiteside told the media Wednesday that his thigh bruise is improving, Jason Lieser of the Palm Beach Post reports. "It's getting better. I feel better," Whiteside said.

Whiteside sustained the bruise during the Heat's Game 3 loss to the Hornets, but after resting Sunday and and going through a light pregame workout Monday morning, he was able to start Game 4 and play through the lingering discomfort. The big man played a series-low 25 minutes, however, and finished with just eight points, seven rebounds, and three blocks, a fairly moderate statistical output by his standards. Entering Monday, Whiteside had been averaging 17 points, 14 rebounds, and three blocks through the first three games of the series. The 26-year-old, who will be an unrestricted free agent come July 1, will look to get back on track in Wednesday's Game 5 in Miami as the Heat try to regain control of the series.