Sixers: Top 5 free agents in the Southeast Division
No. 4: Dwyane Wade, Miami Heat
Wade made his long-awaited return to Miami at the trade deadline, averaging 12 points in 22.4 minutes per game with the Heat. He also made some clutch plays against the Sixers, both in the regular season and their first-round playoff series.
Strengths
Wade might retire this summer, so his inclusion on this list is dependent on that decision. If he does decide to play one more year, though, he still has the ability to contribute as a scoring punch and secondary ball-handler in the second unit.
Unlike his good friend Carmelo Anthony, Wade has adjusted his game with age. He no longer functions as the hyper-athletic slasher he was in 2006, instead using crafty pull-ups and taking on some playmaking duties.
While not much of a shooter, Wade can still create his own shot when needed. His defense isn’t bad either, which is impressive for a rapidly aging 36-year-old.
Weaknesses
Aside from lacking the explosiveness he once had, Wade’s three-point shooting is still a slight issue. He can still hit mid-rangers with ease, but proper spacing is a must in order to maximize his presence one the floor.
Fit
Wade has already made it clear that he’s either retiring or returning to Miami, so the Sixers are out of the picture. He would make sense in the second unit, though, taking some of the playmaking load off Simmons’ shoulders and giving them another source of dribble penetration.