Dwyane Wade‘s return to the Miami Heat has impacted the team in more ways than one.
Dwyane Wade has only been back in a Miami Heat uniform for 12 games, yet has already done so much to improve the 2017-18 group.
Currently, the 36-year-old is averaging 13.7 points a game in 22.8 minutes, an improvement over his 11.2 points in 23.2 minutes over 46 games as a Cleveland Cavalier. He’s had performances such as scoring 27 points in 25 minutes on 10-for-16 shooting from the field, against the Philadelphia 76ers. And recording 25 points in 26 minutes, shooting 11-of-18 versus the Los Angeles Lakers.
He’s hit game-winners, connected on jaw-dropping alley oops and forced contests into overtime.
Richardson hits Wade for an oop 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 #Heat pic.twitter.com/eW1yBDpEeP
— Off the Glass (@otgbasketball) March 9, 2018
And yes, all of that has helped his team out tremendously.
"“It’s not just about Dwyane shooting the shots at the end — although that is a big part of it. But it’s his playmaking ability, his experience in those moments,” said head coach Erik Spoelstra about Wade’s fourth quarter contributions."
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However, his return has done more than just add numbers to a final score and wins to a record. The impact the guard has had on his teammates, goes far beyond a single game or even an entire season. What he instills upon the roster will ensure success for years to come.
"“…it’s the confidence that he gives everybody,” Spoelstra explained. “The history of this league has always shown that true star players make other players better, make role players better. But what does that mean? It also means guys feel more confident and feel they can step up and take on the challenge in a different way without having a guy like that.”"
This has perhaps been most obvious when it comes to Josh Richardson and Justise Winslow, guys who were just finishing their rookie seasons when Wade took off for the Chicago Bulls. And while they grew close during that one year together, they are grateful to have him back, acting like a big brother and mentor to them both.
"“Every time it gets late in the game I just watch how he walks on the court, how he gets to his shots,” said Richardson, after the trip to Portland."
And it shows. Although the third-year had already been having a noteworthy run, he has noticeably had more pep in his step since Wade’s return. Like when he scored 16 points on 5-for-9 shooting from the field (3-for-5 from downtown), in 35 minutes against the Washington Wizards.
Winslow has made the greatest transformation though, having a March to remember. Averaging 13.0 points and 7.7 rebounds this month, the forward has leveled up.
"“[Wade’s return has] just taken [Winslow] to a different level,” said Spoelstra."
One which includes a 15-point, 13-rebound performance against the Trailblazers, alongside also finishing with four assists and two blocks.
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Wade’s homecoming may just have gotten started, with the Miami Heat still having 14 games to go (plus hopefully a playoff run). But it’s already clear to see that bringing him back was the right move, not just for instant results but the future of the franchise.