Pat Riley on Dwyane Wade: 'We want him here for the rest of his career'
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Finally, some comforting words for Miami Heat fans.
In response to the growing rumors of dissatisfaction between Dwyane Wade and the Heat, president Pat Riley spoke warmly about his intentions with Wade.
Riley: "We respect him. We want him back. We want him here for the rest of his career. We're going to do all we can to make that happen."
— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) June 26, 2015
Riley said Heat will be first to talk to Wade on July 1.
— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) June 26, 2015
Wade has a player option worth $16 million for 2015-16, but a final decision hasn't been made by the three-time champion. Wade is reportedly looking for a raise in the range of $20 million per year, while the capped-out Heat want Wade to accept something in the range of $10 million.
Should Wade opt out, the star free agent will draw plenty of interest from around the league. The Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers have been linked to Wade as potential plan Bs should he fail to re-sign in Miami.
It's a tricky summer for the Heat, who also have to worry about re-signing point guard Goran Dragic to a near maximum contract. If Dragic and Wade both earn something close to the max, the Heat's total salary could near $100 million for next season.
Wade has made a history of sacrificing salary to help the Heat compete, something Riley dutifully acknowledged.
Riley: "Everybody in this organization has sacrificed" but he notes that Wade has more than any other player.
— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) June 26, 2015
The 33-year-old Wade struggles to stay healthy, but he's still tremendously productive. Last season, Wade averaged 21.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 31.8 minutes. With a cleaner bill of health and star prospect Justise Winslow on-board, the Heat are poised to return to the postseason next year.
Wade would love to remain in Miami and Riley wants him to stay, but money could still be an issue.