The Miami Heat’s offseason just got more fun.
Although franchise legend Dwyane Wade had called it quits after last season, the 2006 Finals MVP jokingly gave fans a glimmer of hope after revealing he’d only come out of retirement for the Heat while referencing free agent forward Jimmy Butler on Twitter.
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Wade, 37, retired from the NBA after the conclusion of this past regular season. Although the 16-year veteran was at the tail end of his career, he helped Miami nearly make the playoffs with stellar offense, dazzling defense and productive mentoring.
The Heat’s all-time leading scorer finished his prolific career with averages of 22.0 points, 5.4 assists and 4.7 rebounds per game.
While Wade’s playing career has shown no real signs of a comeback, he certainly could play a factor in Butler choosing to join the Heat. The pair share a close friendship that originated in its time together with the Chicago Bulls during the 2016-17 NBA season. Both players also went to Marquette University.
Despite the Heat’s salary-cap constraints, the Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly open to a sign-and-trade involving Butler so they don’t lose him for nothing. Although the Heat would have to surrender assets, the 29-year-old has the skill set and production to help launch the team into contention.
The 6-foot-8 star put 18.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.0 assists last season.
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