Miami Heat

Wade Hopes Fans Welcome LeBron Back With Cheers

The Heat will square off with LeBron James and the Cavaliers in Miami on Christmas Day

Dwyane Wade would like Miami Heat fans to welcome LeBron James back to Miami in a positive manner according to ESPN.

Much has been said since LeBron James exited town and opted out of his Heat contract. The star has put up his typical numbers with the Cleveland Cavaliers while the Heat have struggled in several games without their former main weapon. Cleveland currently sits in fifth place in the Eastern Conference while Miami is positioned seventh.

When James made his decision, there were a lot of reactions from Heat fans. As expected, some felt betrayed by the move while others were appreciative of what James did in his four years with Miami. That kind of reaction could lead to a bit of a mixed response on Christmas Day which is what Wade is anticipating.

"It's going to be a mixture. The man helped take us to places we've only been once before he got here. So I think he should be received very well for that at the start of the game," Wade said.

Even those that cheer for James before the start of the game could change their tune after tip-off. Often times in situations similar to this, the player is greeted warmly at first but they are quickly viewed as the enemy during the game itself. That is something Wade is prepared for and understands.

"When the game [starts], then do what you've got to do," Wade added.

Miami will do its best to welcome James back with style with a planned tribute video. It is similar to what the team did when Mike Miller returned to American Airlines Arena last season. At the time, Miller was greeted with loud cheers from the appreciative crowd.

The Heat are hopeful they will have Wade available for the game on Thursday. The veteran missed Sunday's game with a bruised knee and is considered day-to-day. Chris Bosh remains questionable to suit up for the contest due to a calf injury.

On Sunday, Miami finally put an end to a long losing streak at home but has a couple of tough games coming up. After Cleveland on Thursday, the Heat will battle the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday to conclude a seven-game homestand.

Miami's next game will come on Tuesday against the 3-23 Philadelphia 76ers.

Contact Us