5. Nothing but love for Dwyane Wade
Back in June, Wade opted into the second year of his contract with the Bulls, citing the fact he had $24 million reasons to do so.
Asked Dwyane Wade tonight why he opted in with Chicago for 2017-18: "24 million reasons."
— David Aldridge (@davidaldridgedc) June 21, 2017
Aside from the huge payday on the table, it is reasonable to presume Wade was hoping the front office was gearing up to make another postseason run. Those hopes were quickly dashed, though, as Butler was sent to the Minnesota Timberwolves just a few days later, which of course indicated the Bulls were ready to go in a different direction.
Despite Wade’s decision, the consensus was that it was only going to be a matter of time before the two sides began working towards a buyout. At this stage in his career, Wade wants one last shot to play with a title contender, compared to the alternative of playing on a team that is heading into the first year of what could be a lengthy rebuilding process.
That being said, the Bulls and Wade reached an agreement on a buyout over the weekend, allowing Wade to become an unrestricted free agent.
The Bulls and Dwyane Wade have reached agreement on a buyout, per sources.
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) September 25, 2017
Wade had nothing but good things to say about his experience with the front office and apparently, the feeling is mutual.
Now that the two sides were able to part ways on good terms, the Bulls avoided a potential obstacle that would have lingered into training camp.