After several back and forth feelings, it appears Dwyane Wade has come to a decision. The veteran guard will reportedly pick up his player option for the upcoming 2017-2018 season, according to Vincent Goodwill of CSN Chicago. The option would net Wade $24 million next season.
Sources: Bulls were informed by Dwyane Wade that he's picking up his option for next season. Story to come
— Vincent Goodwill (@vgoodwill) June 20, 2017
The decision to opt-in appears to be mostly based on financial gain. At age 35, it is unlikely Wade would get that kind of money elsewhere. It was reported back when Wade signed with Chicago that he would not stay with the team should a rebuild be the organization’s path. There were strong indications back in May that Wade would pick up his option. This could mean that Chicago does not plan to rebuild just yet, though the recent trade rumors about Jimmy Butler are contradicting.
This is a bad move for the Bulls, who quite honestly should be rebuilding. The $24 million tied up to an aging star who has problems with the front office is…less than an ideal situation. It could also mean that Wade is accepting of the rebuild and wants to be around for the younger players’ development. Either way, that is a lot of money tied up to a player who is not part of the future.
