Trading Jimmy Butler became the highlight of the Chicago Bulls 2017 offseason. A clear sign that they were embracing the rebuild. As it turns out he wasn’t the only core member on the block. For a time people were curious what the Bulls planned to do with veteran guard Dwyane Wade after he chose to opt in on his contract option for next season.
NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowki delivered an answer on ESPN. He stated that the Los Angeles Lakers were interested in Wade and whether he was available.
“After Dwyane Wade opted back into his contract for this year and then Jimmy Butler got traded, and Dwyane was trying to figure out are we going to go forward together here in Chicago…
“The Lakers had interest if Chicago was A) willing to potentially trade him or if Dwyane got a buyout in Chicago, the Lakers absolutely would’ve had interest in signing him.”
Dwyane Wade swan song destined for L.A.?
They apparently are seeking any and all ways possible to build a lure for LeBron James next year. Word is that is their big end game as of now. Wade and James are former teammates from Miami and good friends. Getting a chance to play together again certainly would sound enticing. Especially given the young roster the Lakers have built.
Instead the Bulls have chosen to maintain the status quo. They refused to trade Wade and haven’t made any move to buyout his contract. Seems they’re content to let him play out the deal, using this season to provide leadership and experience for the young players they’ve brought in.
