After going over all of his options this summer, Dwyane Wade has yet to make a decision regarding his playing future.
It’s fair to assume that interest in his services during the free agency period was sparse, considering the 36-year-old’s health is a major concern and his night-to-night availability if often up in the air. Wade did receive a lucrative contract offer from a Chinese club, but it appears he has ruled out that route. Of course, Wade is also considering retirement, but he recently told Sun-Sentinel’s Ira Winderman that if he does play next season, it will be in a Heat uniform.
“Heat only. If I play the game of basketball this year, it’ll be in a Miami uniform. If I don’t, I’ll be living in Miami and somewhere else probably.”
“It becomes a lifestyle after so long,” he said. “So, for me, that’s what I’m doing. It’s that time of the year, where I’ve been for as long as I can remember. This time of the year is where you start getting into the mindset.
“I don’t know what I’m going to do. I don’t think we’re at that point yet. But I’m still getting into the mindset of getting my body and my mind prepared. And whether I’m playing this year or not, I will be prepared to play. And I’ll make sure that I stay ready.”
With Miami already over the salary cap, they could still bring back Dwyane Wade on the veteran’s minimum but it remains to be seen how the scenario plays out, especially with retirement remaining a very real possibility.
Wade has clearly ruled out playing overseas or for any other NBA organizations as the time frame for him to make a decision is beginning to wind down with training camp on the horizon.
Wade has played his entire career in a Miami uniform outside of his brief half-year stint with the Cavs last season. The crafty veteran is one of the best shooting guards the NBA has ever seen and could certainly help maximize the potential of Miami’s young talent in a mentorship role.
At this juncture, consistent playing time in the Heat rotation would be unlikely, but having Wade on the sideline could serve as an invaluable asset for a Miami team that will look to make a postseason run next season.
