UPDATE:
Dwyane Wade has agreed to a one-year, $20 million deal with the Miami Heat as Pat Riley keeps his franchise icon.
“It has been an honor and privilege to play with the Miami HEAT the past twelve years, Wade said in a statement. The HEAT family and I have shared incredible moments over the years and I look forward to continuing our journey. I am extremely proud of my personal contributions in helping to build the HEAT franchise and for bringing three NBA championship wins to our great city. For my entire NBA career, Miami has always been my city and my home. Im overwhelmed with the love and support the Miami community have consistently shown me and my family throughout the years.”
“This contract is a win-win for both Dwyane and the HEAT, Wades agent, Henry Thomas said. Not only does Dwyane get to extend his Hall of Fame-worthy career with the only franchise for whom he has ever played, but he will have the flexibility next summer to sign an additional deal. And the HEAT gets to keep their franchise cornerstone while having the ability to build a championship-contending roster.”
The move follows over a month of public maneuvers from both sides as the Heat had reportedly objected to giving Wade significant long-term money due to both their future plans and his relative inability to play all 82 games. Meanwhile Wade had been pursuing a max contract to make up for money he lost in helping the Heat facilitate their moves to from the Big 3 with Chris Bosh and LeBron James. The Heat also reportedly had eyes on Kevin Durant in 2016. With a one-year, $20 million deal, Wade stays with the team that he has been with since he was drafted in 2003 and reaps a massive payday well over market value.