Dwyane Wade: 5 potential landing spots in 2018 NBA free agency

3. Miami Heat

Dwyane Wade might be from Chicago, but there’s no doubt that his home in the NBA is in Miami. He is a legend in south Florida, having won three championships and revitalized the NBA in a city known for its lack of support of professional sports.

After the reunion with LeBron James failed to materialize last season in Cleveland, he was traded back to South Beach. Though his numbers in the regular season were pedestrian, his production levels increased during the playoffs. Coming off the bench, D-Wade averaged 16.6 points and 4.2 rebounds per game during the postseason.

The Heat a viable playoff contender in the weaker Eastern Conference, but they’re not beating the Boston Celtics or Philadelphia 76ers to advance to the NBA Finals anytime soon. If he decides to re-sign, the decision would be sentimental. At this point in his career, the idea of retiring with the franchise he made relevant could be enticing.

The Heat are strapped financially, but could offer up to $5.3 million to him via the mid-level exception. However, they already have a plethora of guards on the roster and could use the money to fill other positions. Though retiring in Miami could factor into Wade’s decision, it’s unlikely to affect the decision of team president Pat Riley.