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Chicago Bulls: 5 Takeaways From Dwyane Wade Signing

By James D. Tillman III

May 13, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade (3) shoots the ball over Toronto Raptors forward DeMarre Carroll (5) during the first quarter in game six of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
May 13, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade (3) shoots the ball over Toronto Raptors forward DeMarre Carroll (5) during the first quarter in game six of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 12, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls vice president of basketball perations John Paxson (left) and general manager Gar Forman (center) talk with sports writer Sam Smith (right) prior to a game against the New Orleans Pelicans at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 12, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls vice president of basketball perations John Paxson (left) and general manager Gar Forman (center) talk with sports writer Sam Smith (right) prior to a game against the New Orleans Pelicans at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /

Does Wade Signing Truly Benefit The Bulls?

In reaching an agreement with Wade, the Bulls are adding a player that knows how to perform at the highest level. Not only is he a 12-time All-Star, he has also been to five conference finals to go along with three championship rings.

Despite the knee injuries that have limited his effectiveness in the past, Wade had a bounce-back season in 2015-16. He averaged 19.0 points, 4.6 assists and 4.1 rebounds per contest while shooting 46 percent from the field. His 74 appearances marked the most games he has played in since the 2010-11 season.

Does this move help the Bulls become a playoff team once again? The jury is still out on that one.

Does this signing move them any closer to contending for a title, which is the ultimate goal? Absolutely not.

What it does mean, though, is the Bulls are determined to remain competitive compared to starting from scratch, and they are hoping that Wade will increase their chances of landing marquee free agents in 2017.

More hoops habit: The Many Ripple Effects Of Dwyane Wade's Bulls Decision

Overall, the front office did manage to retain some flexibility, as Rondo’s second year is only partially guaranteed, while Wade’s second year includes a player option. And maybe, just maybe, the Bulls have positioned themselves to be major players in next year’s free agency period as well.

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