Dwyane Wade has reportedly agreed to join the Cleveland Cavaliers, signing a one-year deal worth $2.3 million. The development hardly moved most considering the Cavs loomed as the likely destination for the 35-year-old guard.
League sources told The Vertical of the Dwyane Wade deal, something that will reunite “The Flash” with his close friend, LeBron James. Both played together in Miami, delivering two tiles to the Heat. Once the deal is made official, both try to go for the title no. 3 and the second NBA crown for the Cavs.
Will it be enough against the Warriors?
The addition of Wade adds more firepower to the Cavs backcourt. Already present are Derrick Rose and Isaiah Thomas, both signed in separate deals. Will this be enough for the Cavs this coming NBA season?
One team that the Cavs want to match up well with are the reigning NBA champion Golden State Warriors. Cleveland failed to hold up well against the “Dubs,” and their fortunes spiraled when Kyrie Irving wanted out of Ohio. “Uncle Drew” was eventually dealt with the Boston Celtics for Thomas, Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic and a future draft pick.
With Wade, the Cavs get a proven shooting guard who showed during the 2016-17 NBA season that he can still ball. Paired with James, Rose and another all-star in Kevin Love, the Cavs look formidable on paper.
Can Rose, Thomas, and Wade stay healthy?
With a daunting backcourt on paper, it remains to be seen if Rose, Thomas, and Wade are durable enough to play the entire NBA season. This early, Thomas has been ruled out and may not be ready until January.
With “I.T.” out due to a hip injury, Rose and Wade are expected to get longer minutes manning the Cavs backcourt.
Lue is likely to manage the minutes of both all-stars to make sure the last the full route.
Rose and Wade have been notorious for injuries the past years, a reason why both have been kept out of the basketball floor. Rose has had problems with his knees while Wade has had his share of various ones tied up to his elbow and hips.
Hence, despite an explosive backcourt tandem, Lue needs to be aware that he is also banking on a couple of stars who could fall short if pushed to the limit.
Time management will be essential
While most see a promising season for the Cavs, their chances against the Warriors and other “super” NBA teams have improved. Lue and his coaching staff will need to map out their logistics too and ensure that no one gets burned out and injured.
Aside from playing time, there is the age factor. Wade is already 35 while James is 32. Rose is only 28, but his ability to stay fit is severely in question. The Cavs did get stronger in talent and improved chances against the Warriors. So the next question is how long these new faces can hold up once game time comes.