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Could Dwyane Wade partner up with Kobe Bryant?
Wade's messy contract negotiations with the Miami Heat have reportedly hit a snag and teams are looking to capitalize. One such team is the Los Angeles Lakers, who could easily meet Wade's lofty demands this summer.
While many execs still see Wade/Heat as contract saber rattling, a Wade option will be the Lakers. Mutual interest, per league sources.
— Chris Mannix (@ChrisMannixSI) June 21, 2015
It's very possible that Wade's side is simply driving up leverage.
The 11-time All-Star has helped Miami to three titles since being drafted fifth overall in 2003. He has played the part of a loyal soldier, single-handedly willing defunct Heat teams to the postseason while also taking discounts to help Miami recruit players. It's been a fruitful relationship for both sides.
But Wade's declining health and increasing contract demands have put the Heat in a bind. Wade is reportedly looking for $20 million per year whereas the Heat opened with an offer near $10 million. With other items like re-signing Goran Dragic on their agenda, the Heat's payroll could reach $100 million next season.
If Wade does indeed hit the market, the Lakers (who have swaths of cap space) are poised to pounce. With next season marking the last of Bryant's tenure with Los Angeles, pairing him with Wade would be a fitting, if not fantastical send-off.
The 33-year-old Wade averaged 21.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists good for a PER of 21.4. He played in 62 games, marking the fourth-straight year in which Wade has appeared in less than 70 games.
Wade has a player option worth $16.6 million for 2015-16.
