Why Luol Deng Opting In Is Good For the Miami Heat

Why Luol Deng Opting In Is Good For the Miami Heat by Joseph Zapata

A prominent reporter says that the Miami Heat will offer Dwyane Wade the maximum contract.

Yahoo Sports reporter Adrian Wojnarowski said on Fox Sports television Monday night that there is a “minimal chance” that Dwyane Wade leaves the Miami Heat, who will likely offer him a max deal.

The report came on the same day that Wade opted out of his contract to test free agency. According to many previous reports, Wade has been open to leaving Miami if he didn’t get the contract he wanted. Woj is saying the Heat may cave and sign him to a maximum deal.

Other reports from ESPN also suggest that Wade will remain in Miami.

It’s unclear if what Woj is reporting is merely an educated guess or something based on intel, but it’s encouraging nonetheless that someone as plugged in to the NBA feels confident that Wade will return to the Heat.

Wade was due $16.1 million next season before opting out. He is believed to be seeking a long term deal, possibly in the area of three years for between $45-$60 million. While initial reports indicate that the Heat offered Wade a three-year deal worth about $10 million per year, a maximum deal would pay Wade upwards of $20 million per year.