Lakers Rumors: Dwayne Wade coming to LA makes sense for everyone
By Jason Reed
The Chicago Bulls and Dwayne Wade agreed to buyout his one remaining season under contract. Now, according to Lakers rumors, Los Angeles is in the mix.
Having the prospects of Dwayne Wade on your team is salivating, even if it is not the same Wade from ten years ago. Wade still has that superstar draw, and as long as his contract does not impede long-term plans, his star power would be huge in LA. That is why the latest Lakers rumors are making a connection between Wade and Los Angeles.
Per Alex Kennedy of HoopsHype, the Lakers are one of several teams to reach out to Wade. The Cavs, Thunder, Spurs and Heat are also all in consideration. Three of the four teams would put Wade in a situation to win a championship, which could sway his interests to either Cleveland, San Antonio or Oklahoma City.
However, a move to the Los Angeles Lakers could be a long-term investment for LeBron James next offseason. Wade will likely sign for the veteran minimum, allowing the Lakers to pay him under five million a year.
If Wade were to sign a three-year deal with a team option it would perfect set stones in place to go out and get LeBron. First, Wade adds depth to the shooting guard position alongside Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. With Wade in the mix, Los Angeles can deal Jordan Clarkson without taking a talent hit; opening cap space for James and his superstar buddies.
Plus, bringing in Wade brings in an established name that can help lure other free agents with LeBron. While he is not at his prime, Wade can still contribute at an above average level. Last season Wade averaged 18.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists in 60 games played.
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This could be enough leverage for LeBron to convince someone like Paul George or DeMarcus Cousins to also join a super team in Los Angeles.
Wade would bring in a veteran insight that is not present on this team and could aid the progression of Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram. While the team does have Luol Deng and Brook Lopez, Wade has won three NBA Finals, he has seen so much throughout the league and he really could help turn both guys into something special.
Los Angeles gets the star they need to boost jersey sales for this season. Dwayne Wade gets a place where he can be a teacher for one season and then make a run for the NBA Finals next season. While a contender such as the Cavs, Spurs or Thunder makes the most sense on paper, joining LA could be laying the foundation for long-term plans.
It makes sense why the latest Lakers rumors involve Dwayne Wade; because he would be a great addition to the Lakers. For now, we are just going to have to wait and see where Wade wants to take his talents next season.