Dwyane Wade would consider leaving Heat if they do not pay him what he wants

Can you picture Dwyane Wade in any uniform other than that of the Miami Heat? You might have to.

The Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson reports that Wade and the Heat are far apart on what the shooting guard should make the next three seasons and that Wade would consider leaving if the team does not pay him what he’s seeking. Wade reportedly prefers to stay with the Heat, but he is open to considering other offers if they do not raise their offer.

Wade has a $16.1 million player option for next season and has until late June to make his decision. He reportedly is expected to opt out of his contract because he is seeking one final 3-year deal in his career. Part of Wade’s thinking is that he stands to make more money now that the salary cap is increasing in 2016 by 33 percent from $67 million to $89 million.

Wade’s agent Henry Thomas indicated in comments to Jackson that he hopes both parties will be able to work out a deal.

“With the amount of time he has spent with the organization, every effort will be made to try to work something out,” Thomas told The Herald. “The five times he played for a championship, resulting in three championships, is a significant accomplishment for any professional. We are continuing to talk about a resolution that would be satisfactory to both sides.”

Even if they will try to make sure Wade will return to the Heat, The Herald reports that “associates aren’t sure what will happen and would not be shocked if Wade leaves.”

Even though Wade has been the franchise cornerstone for the Heat, I wouldn’t give him more than the $16 million or so he’s set to earn. The guy is 33 and lucky to give you two thirds of a season because of his health. You think that is going to improve over the next couple of years? Good luck. You don’t want a Kobe-type contract on your hands if you’re the Heat.

Wade was drafted by the Heat and has played his entire career there, but don’t forget he seriously flirted with other teams during the summer of 2010 before opting to re-sign with Miami. He even admitted he was very close to joining the Bulls. There’s no reason to think he wouldn’t want to go to his hometown team in the future.