Whiteside (hip) was unable to return to Wednesday's game against the Wizards after exiting in the second quarter and will be reevaluated Thursday.

EDGE Analysis

Whiteside's injury was initially classified as an oblique strain, but coach Erik Spoelstra labeled the ailment as either a hip contusion or a hip strain after the game. The Heat's medical staff should have a clearer idea at the extent of the injury before Friday's game against the Raptors, but until then, it's difficult to count on Whiteside being available for that contest. In addition to Whiteside, the Heat also lost Luol Deng (eye) to injury during the game, and entered the night without Dwyane Wade (shoulder), Goran Dragic (calf), Beno Udrih (neck), Chris Andersen (knee), and Josh McRoberts (knee). A potential Whiteside absence for Friday's game would likely result in Amar'e Stoudemire making his first start of the season.