Dwyane Wade is once again a free agent after the former All-Star shooting guard reached a buyout agreement with the Chicago Bulls on Sunday, one day before training camps kick off around the league. The Associated Press also reported that Wade is closely evaluating his options after the buyout. There are at least four teams contending for the veteran’s services, most of which are legit title contenders.

The Buyout

According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, Wade agreed to forfeit about $8 million of his guaranteed salary of $23.8 million for the 2017-18 season.

Chicago will still take on $16 million against their cap, but the amount of money Wade waived enabled them to re-sign Nikola Mirotic on a two-year, $27 million deal without going above the salary cap.

Wade’s divorce with the Bulls became inevitable ever since the "GarPax" regime pushed the rebuild button by trading All-Star wingman Jimmy Butler to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Bulls received a package centered around high-flying guard Zach LaVine and the No. 7 overall pick (Lauri Markkanen).

Now that Wade is a free agent again, multiple teams have expressed interest in the former NBA finals MVP. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and San Antonio Spurs are three title contenders vying for his services, while the Miami Heat hope they can repair the relationship with Wade and perhaps reunite with the franchise’s all-time leading scorer.

Teaming up with Bron

The Cavaliers are the front-runner in the race for Wade for many reasons. "Woj" pointed out the Cavs were the most aggressive suitor even before he reached a buyout agreement with the Bulls. His affiliation and familiarity playing alongside buddy LeBron James also helped Cleveland’s cause in recruiting Wade.

Reloaded Thunder

The Thunder were never in the conversation for Wade until Sam Presti brought Carmelo Anthony on board in a sweeping trade with the New York Knicks on Saturday. With a new Big three, OKC is becoming an attractive destination for the remaining free agents on the market. Reports also indicated that Westbrook, George, and newly-acquired Anthony are actively recruiting Wade to join them in Oklahoma.

Pop and the Spurs

Gregg Popovich is the biggest reason why the Spurs are on Wade’s wish-list. Popovich had a chance to coach Wade during their stint with USA Basketball, and the two reportedly developed great working relationship. Despite a low-key offseason, San Antonio is still viewed as a top-tier team in the league because of their depth and defense.

One last ride on South Beach

Although many believed Wade’s buyout opens the door for a reunion with the Heat, the reality presents a different story. Alex Kennedy of Basketball Insiders noted that Wade hasn’t fully repaired a fractured relationship with Pat Riley. Moreover, the Heat can only offer Wade a mid-level exception salary of $4.2 million and a spot on the bench – something the former All-Star is unlikely to accept.
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