Seven games into the Miami Heat’s 2018-19 campaign, and Dwyane Wade is already making the most of his last year in the league.
Believe it or not, there are some people who believe Miami Heat star Dwyane Wade should have already retired.
I know; what a crazy concept, right?
Luckily, the 36-year-old doesn’t care what people think. And much to Heat Nation’s delight, after some deliberation this summer, he decided to return the team for #OneLastDance.
As excited as fans were though, they weren’t exactly sure what his role on the 2018-19 roster would look like. Between his age and the plethora of other guards, some were afraid that his minutes would be greatly limited, his on-court presence really just reserved for closing out blowout games or making a show pony appearance right before the half.
Fortunately for us all though, that hasn’t been the case at all.
In fact, many may argue that the veteran has beyond exceeded expectations so far.
Seven games into the season, Wade is averaging 13.1 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.0 assists, in 25.1 minutes of play. What’s more, is that he’s shooting 42.0 percent from the field, and an even more impressive career-high 44.8 percent from downtown.
"“The NBA is changing, so it’s definitely an emphasis in this locker room that it’s never been…” Wade said on the topic of taking more 3’s. “It’s something we all talk about, and we want guys to get those shots up. I’m just going to continue to try to get them up if they’re there.”"
Sounds like a great plan, considering how much of bright light for Miami he’s already proved to be this year.
Wade opened the season by grabbing 11 rebounds in 26 minutes, against the Orlando Magic on October 17, undoubtedly setting the tone for what was to come.
On October 20, he scored 21 points in 25 minutes on 9-for-15 shooting from the field, versus the Charlotte Hornets (alongside three rebounds, three assists and two blocks).
After which he finished with 19 points in 25 minutes, including four 3-pointers, in the Heat’s latest October 30 battle with the Hornets.
It’s safe to say Father Prime is very much living up to his nickname right about now.
Now whether or not Wade can keep this type of production up over the entire year, is still yet to be determined.
Going strong for 82 games is a tall order for anyone, but especially 15 seasons in. However, with how deep Miami is, there will always be plenty of personnel to step in and alleviate some of that weight from his shoulders; should his newly discovered fountain of youth ever even temporarily run dry.
While it’s clear a new era of Miami Heat Basketball has begun, with the likes of Bam Adebayo and Josh Richardson becoming the face of the future, Wade is still very much a part of helping the organization transition over.
And really, what more could the Miami Heat ask for?