HEAT KEEP WADE

In past contract negotiations with the Miami Heat, Dwyane Wade left money on the table so the team could sign other players.

When the NBA’s free agency period began this week, Wade made his move to recoup. He opted out of the final year of his contract – worth $16 million – and began to test the market. He didn’t test it for long.

Wade re-signed with the Heat on Thursday, accepting a one-year deal for $20 million. Now that’s the way to get a raise.

The Heat struggled last season in the aftermath of LeBron James’ defection to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Chris Bosh missed half the season with a blood clot in his lung and Wade missed 20 games as well. The team that had gone to four consecutive NBA Finals finished 37-45 and missed the playoffs.

The Heat moved quickly to re-sign another key guard, Goran Dragic, and then brought Wade back into the fold. That’s a solid sign for next season, when Bosh should again be ready to go.

“We’re going to be better. I know that,” Wade told the Associated Press. “Knock on wood, you stay healthy, I think we’re a good team. I like our chances.”

Wade has spent 12 years with the Heat, and he’s an 11-time All-Star. At 33, he may be able to finish his career with the Heat, which would be fitting.

As always, it’s one year at a time.
 
 
Post By: Larry Weisman, a longtime sportswriter for USA TODAY, blogs for Twistity.com. Follow him on Twitter @MrLarryWeisman .