With Dwyane Wade deciding to test the free agent market, one team expected to try and convince the Miami Heat star are the Los Angeles Lakers. Apparently this is something that does not come as a surprise.
Wade seems to be bent on listening to offers from other teams, opting out from his contract which could have guaranteed him $16 million next season. Wade seems to be looking for a long-term deal which, according to various reports, is something that Heat are not to sold on giving.
With the Lakers sorely in need of a veteran guard who could fill up the void and mentor young players like Ronnie Price and Jordan Clarkson, Wade would be perfect to take on the role.
And with Kobe Bryant expected to retire soon, Wade could inherit the reigns and be the new face of the Lakers though he may have to co-exist with Kobe until the Black Mamba officially calls it quits.
There is no question that Wade has proven his worth but at 33, a long-term deal may need ample scrutiny.
Like Kobe, Wade has grown prone to injuries. His style of play takes its toll on his body and such could become a hindrance if he intends to land a long-term contract from the Lakers or any other team for that matter.
Another angle is Wade is looking to join a ballclub which can at least make a go at the NBA playoffs. The Lakers have missed the NBA playoffs for the past two seasons and their chances next year would depend on who will compose the team aside from Bryant, Clarkson, Price and Tarik Black.
These are the only players who seem to have a lock next season and adding Wade to that mix doesn't seem to guarantee return to contention for the Lakers. It would all depend on who else the Lakers can lure to the fold.
To date, the big name players like Kevin Love, Marc Gasol and LaMarcus Aldridge are being mentioned but the Lakers may find it hard to land any of these names.
In fact, the same case holds true for Wade who is expected to be pursued by multiple teams as well.
