The New York Knicks have intensified their talks with Miami Heat free-agent Dwyane Wade, according to a report by ESPN.
Wade has played his entire career in Miami, but there is a chance that his tenure with the Heat has come to an end. Wade is one of the most sought-after free-agents this off-season, and there are rumblings that he is not happy with Heat management.
In New York, Wade would join his friend Carmelo Anthony on an improved roster. The Knicks have added Derrick Rose already this off-season, and appear to be on the verge of signing Joakim Noah as well.
The Heat have come to an agreement with Hassan Whiteside on a long-term deal, and have a meeting scheduled with Kevin Durant as well. All this comes as Wade sits on the sidelines with little action from Miami. The veteran is allegedly upset that he is not more of a priority for Miami.
While it remains possible that Wade ultimately returns to the Heat, they may have to meet his demands in order to make it happen. In past seasons, Wade has taken less money than he could have gotten elsewhere, and has shown a team-first attitude. Wade also gave the Heat extra flexibility by taking a one-year contract last year as a free-agent.
Besides the Knicks, there is increasing interest from the Milwaukee Bucks as well for Wade's services. The Bucks would represent a homecoming for Wade who attended Marquette University which is located in Milwaukee. Wade has remained connected to Marquette and has visited the campus in recent years.
The Heat would likely need to make a trade or two in order to squeeze Wade into the payroll, if he does not take a team-friendly deal. It remains to be seen if Wade would be open to that idea this time around.
