I read an AP story that came out today regarding Miami Heat star guard Dwyane Wade, and how he voiced his views on his potential free agency next summer. For Wade, getting to the postseason is not enough. The 2006 NBA Finals MVP has seen the team that at one point was on top of the mountain take steps back over the last few seasons. Last season, Miami was able to make it to the playoffs, however their defeat at the hands of the Atlanta Hawks, combined with the powers of the Eastern Conference becoming stronger, has Wade thinking twice about being in Miami long term.
The Heat have not made any moves this offseason of significance, and while they were in the 4-5 matchup in the East playoffs this year, realistically, they are not the fourth of fifth best team today in there conference. Orlando, Cleveland and Boston are all better. Atlanta has stayed par as of now, while Washington will be better with a healthy Gilbert Arenas and the addition of Mike Miller and Randy Foye. Chicago should be solid, and the Sixers with a healthy Elton Brand is just as good, if not better than the Heat. The Raptors have improved on paper drastically as well. The way things look, Wade could look at a 45 win season next year, and a 7 seed in the East? That won’t cut it.
Don’t take my word on it. Wade spoke on the topic today. Wade told the AP “I’m going to listen. I owe the Miami Heat that much. I’m going to listen to what they have to say and I’m going to think about it, but right now, the way I feel, I want to make sure that we’re on track to where I want us to be on track to before I sign back.”
What can the Heat do to make them a contender in the eyes of Wade? Would Miami have to bring in a star forward like Amare Stoudemire to keep Wade happy? Only time will tell.
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the heat will be better than phily, washington, chicago, and the atl because beasly will improve and the celtics r old
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