With signs indicating that LeBron James will stay in South Beach, win or lose, Heat president, Pat Riley will make the biggest decision this summer in choosing between James and Dwyane Wade.
These two have been a dynamic duo, arguably the most talented of all-time, but Wade has gradually declined since James’ ascension. James joined Bill Russell and Michael Jordan as the only players to win back-to-back regular season and Finals MVP awards.
Wade is having one of the worst playoff performances of his career, averaging 16.3 points in the 2014 NBA Finals. It is clear that Wade has lost a step and is no longer necessary for the future of the Heat.
James is the player who puts the finishing touches on every Heat win or loss. He is the four-time MVP and two-time Finals MVP which is why after this season Wade must go. Wade’s time as the closer on Biscayne Boulevard is long gone. That combined with a max deal and aging knees is why Wade may be playing his last season in the red, white and gold.
Last time James had an opportunity to opt out of his contract, the Cleveland Cavaliers built a new stadium closer to his house. So why wouldn’t Riley turn Wade’s $20 million contract into more pieces to surround James with while he chases Jordan?
Business is business and with the rest of the league catching up, compromises will be made.
Wade said it best when he tweeted, “Loyalty hahahahaha,” because 2006 won’t mean anything to Miami’s ever-dwindling and slim three-peat hopes now.
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