Dwyane Wade still hasn’t made a decision about whether or not he’ll be returning to the Miami Heat. So what gives?
Dwyane Wade has been extremely busy this offseason, from traveling to China for his annual Way of Wade tour, to opening up a brand new business venture with Miami Heat lifer and OG Udonis Haslem in South Florida.
With the two of them having just opened up a branch of West Coast concept 800 Woodfired Kitchen in Wade County, you could say Wade is living his best life this summer.
But there’s something that he hasn’t done, that has left many Heat fans worried: make a decision on his immediate future regarding basketball.
Miami has a roster spot waiting for him, with a one-year, $5.3 million contract ready for the taking.
So what’s the holdout?
According to Greg Cote from the Miami Herald, the holdout might be due to some clarification in his role next year. Everyone knows that if he returns, it will only be with Miami, so people are confused why nothing has been set in stone.
The Heat veteran has played 13 and a half seasons of his current 15-year NBA career with Miami, and knows his time is indeed coming to an end. Therefore, he wants a critical role within the team.
"“I am also told by representatives of the club and of the player that Wade being comfortable with his role is critical. He mentioned recently that he embraces a mentor’s role for the club’s many young guys still developing, ‘but you also want to play,’ he added. A significant addendum, I thought.”"
Whatever the case may be, the Heat know they’re stacked with guards, and rotation issues will definitely be cause for alarm next year. Wade knows that as well, and wants confirmation he will receive playing time next year.
Right now he is not so sure.
Dwyane Wade on returning to the NBA for a 16th season, per @IraHeatBeat: “I wish I had an answer for you.” https://t.co/JdwAwt7HHk pic.twitter.com/67KwzhQGyR
— Bleacher Report NBA (@BR_NBA) September 14, 2018
If his decision comes soon or not, it may very well rely on this obstacle.
If Miami values him as a Heat lifer, they will give him what he wants, even if it’s 20-25 minutes per game in a first role off the bench. They have to because they owe him that much.
If his decision hinges on something completely different, then him taking this long to sign might signal a retirement announcement coming soon.
Regardless, expect major news soon. At the very least it will be closure for Heat fans everywhere. Time’s winding out and people are anxious.
It’s time, Wade.