Is Whiteside Miami's highest impact player?

[GrapeApe]

yes. Heat would be garbage without him.

Not "garbage" exactly, but without him Wade and Bosh have to be elite every night to win. Wiltside makes them a legitimate threat in the playoffs if everyone is healthy.

[Dresta]

Generally every team needs a rim protector if it is going to be decent. Miami before had half of one (Birdman), and he's been injured almost half the season. OF COURSE Whiteside is gonna have a massive impact on this team.

He also helps Miami's other biggest weakness (rebounding). Really the perfect find (and fit).