Dwyane Wade is expected to be bought out by the Chicago Bulls sometime in the near future. Meanwhile, people are already speculating about the future destination of the three-time NBA champion. The latest report, by the Miami Herald's Barry Jackson, indicates, "Though ESPN reported that LeBron James' camp expects Dwyane Wade to end up with Cleveland if he reaches a buyout with the Bulls, a Wade associate has been telling people that Miami and Los Angeles are also appealing destinations for Wade." What would be Wade's reasons to choose Miami, LA, or Cleveland?
Wade in Miami
Wade and the Miami Heat shocked the NBA world when they decided to part ways last year after 13 seasons together. Wade could return to Miami, and the team would certainly benefit. The Heat started last season 11-30 and went on an impressive 30-11 run in the second half of the season. However, that was not enough to make the playoffs.
Wade could be what the Heat missed last season. The Heat failed to acquire All-Star Gordon Hayward in the off-season, so they had to settle for re-signing shooting guards Dion Waiters and Wayne Ellington. Wade would certainly improve the roster at his position, even at age 35.
Wade in LA
Wade, at this stage of his career, could be more useful as a mentor for young NBA talents.
The Los Angeles Lakers are surely one team that boasts an abundance of promising players. Players like Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Jordan Clarkson, and Julius Randle would improve alongside a veteran like Wade, who could teach them a thing or two about being a consummate professional and having a championship mentality.
In addition, the Lakers are not deep enough at the shooting guard position.
The acquisition of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope certainly helps the team, especially on the defensive end. But the Lakers also need an offensive force at that position. Ball will look to feed the best offensive players on the floor, and Wade could be one of his best allies. The possible signing of LeBron James by the Lakers next summer could be another incentive for Wade.
The possibility of seeing Wade join the Los Angeles Clippers seems less likely. The Clippers are a veteran team that has become weaker this summer due to Chris Paul's departure. Their best days are behind them. Wade would not be joining a highly competitive team in the West, nor would he be helping a young and exciting team.
Wade in Cleveland
Wade could choose to make a final attempt to win his fourth NBA championship. The Cleveland Cavaliers will likely make the NBA finals again next year, so they could offer Wade a unique opportunity to play again with his good friend LeBron James and challenge the Golden State Warriors in the finals. Jr Smith, Iman Shumpert, and Kyle Korver have not always been reliable at the shooting guard position for the Cavs. A back-court of Isaiah Thomas and Dwyane Wade would minimize the scar left behind by Kyrie Irving. The addition of Wade could also help convince LeBron to stay in Cleveland past this season.
