Cleveland Cavaliers: Recapping each trade deadline departure’s career in Cleveland
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At first glance, Dwyane Wade signing with the Cavaliers was almost a dream-like scenario for Cleveland. However, the signing backfired badly and Wade had to/want to go.
Wade’s stint in Cleveland did not go as expected. At 36 years old, it’s clear that Wade has lost a step. Just last year he was averaging 18.3 points. In the Wine and Gold, however, Wade averaged career-lows in points (11.2), rebounds (3.9), and assists (3.5).
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While Wade was in a new role coming off the bench, there were times where he seemed very disengaged. Maybe it was his age. Or maybe his lack of commitment. In recent interviews, Wade stated that he would frequently check scores of the Miami Heat games. He also would often say that he wanted to retire as a member of the Heat.
According to AmicoHoops, the front office was “ecstatic” to see Wade go.
"A source tells AmicoHoops that Lue felt Wade was the biggest issue in the Cavs’ locker room. Wade himself even revealed to Miami reporters that pal LeBron James would catch him watching Heat games in the training room and checking scores at halftime."
It appeared that Wade was one of the biggest “drains” on the team. When you add up those reasons, along with the improving play of rookie, Cedi Osman, trading away Wade made all the more sense.
Cleveland is trading Dwyane Wade to Miami, league sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 8, 2018
Dwyane Wade is where he wants to be now, and that’s good for all parties involved. The ‘Reunion 2.0’ didn’t last as long as expected, however at times, was very fun to watch. D-Wade, thank you.
🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/2Gkgj01s15
— DWade (@DwyaneWade) February 9, 2018