While the world continues to obsess over the possibility of LeBron James creating a new soap opera and leaving the Miami Heat, most people assume that Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh are not going anywhere. While that is likely true for D-Wade, who opted out of the two years and $42 million remaining on his contract, Bosh’s situation may not be so simple.
According to Ken Berger of CBSSports.com, Bosh’s future may represent the “tipping point” in Pat Riley’s overall plan. With several teams like the Rockets, Bulls, Mavericks, Lakers and Cavaliers working to clear the cap space needed to sign LeBron James or Carmelo Anthony, a max contract market may be emerging for Bosh. The Heat would not be able to afford giving LeBron and Bosh max contracts.
When LeBron and Carmelo make their decisions, several other teams could have a surplus of cap space from their failed attempt to lure one of the two big prizes. Berger reports that there is a growing belief Bosh would prefer a four-year max contract from a new team over taking a discount to return to Miami.
While we still believe LeBron will ultimately remain with the Heat, there is a reason we have heard so many reports about his agent meeting with teams. James is trying to pressure Riley to improve the roster around him. That would be incredibly difficult to do if Bosh decides to leave. LeBron may even start meeting with teams himself next week if Riley is unable to make some moves before then.
Again, LeBron returning to Miami is still the most likely scenario. That said, it sounds like Bosh’s situation could complicate matters for Riley.
