The Miami Heat are interested in signing veteran Dwyane Wade if he accepts a contract worth $4.3 million and a role off the bench, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. Jackson reported that the Heat are willing to reunite with Wade, who spearheaded the franchise to three NBA title – in 2006 with Shaquille O’Neal, and in 2012 and 2013 with LeBron James. However, so as not to disrupt the Heat’s newfound chemistry, the team wants Wade to play off the bench, which may not be acceptable to the All-Star.
Aside from the Heat, Jackson said Wade is interested in joining James with the Cleveland Cavaliers or the Los Angeles Lakers. However, Wade’s next move depends on whether the Chicago Bulls will buy him out or not. Wade recently exercised the $23.8 million player option in his contract with the Bulls.
Bulls, Wade yet to discuss buyout
In an interview with David Aldridge of Turner Sports, Wade admitted that he and the Bulls have yet to talk about a potential buyout. The veteran said he hasn’t talked to the Bulls' front office, but he plans to do so when the time is right. “I will be in Chicago soon enough and hopefully we get an opportunity to sit down and talk about the future and the direction and go from there,” said the 35-year-old Wade.
Earlier, Alex Kennedy of Hoopshype reported that Wade was deceived by the Bulls into exercising the player option in his contract. Kennedy said the Bulls gave an assurance to Wade that they would field a competitive team in the coming season. After Wade exercised the option, the team traded superstar Jimmy Butler to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Draft Day and waived veteran guard Rajon Rondo.
Wade wants to compete for another title
If the buyout happens, Wade told Aldridge he wants to join a contender and compete for a championship before his NBA career winds down. The All-Star said he still has the competitive goods to help a contender win a championship in case he gets a buyout from the Bulls.
“Hopefully, one day before I'm done playing this game, I can be back in position to compete for a championship.” said Wade. During the interview, Wade hinted that he could join the Cavaliers where he would be reunited with close friend James. While waiting for a buyout, Wade said he’s prepared to join the Bulls’ training camp. “I’m under contract with the Bulls right now, and that’s what I’m preparing for,” said Wade, who recently received the Mannie Jackson Human Spirit Award.