While we all know that rumors and conjecture are rampant in the media we did get a bit of information on two of the three marquee players in Miami. The Miami Heat formed a big three with LeBron James, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh. The three are playing like they intend on winning yet another NBA championship which would be three in a row. However, this summer is when the ability to opt out presents itself. Will anyone opt out? Will the unit stay together? While early, we did get a glimpse into the thought process of two members of the Heat’s big three.
Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh, when asked, have let a little light into the future of the big three and where each player might call home. While a bit tongue and cheek and with laughter in his voice, Dwayne Wade spoke about the future of LeBron James in Miami and Wade’s role in it. According to the USA Today:
“Just don’t solely put it on me,” Wade said, laughing. “That’s what I’m saying. Don’t put the X on me. … There’s a lot that goes into, so just don’t say, ‘If Dwayne Wade doesn’t have the year that we’re accustomed to, it’s over.’ “
There is clearly humor in the comments laced with a bit of seriousness. While aging in the NBA is not always a graceful thing, it appears that Wade has found a time machine in this year’s playoff run. While he did need a bit more rest during the regular season, it is no surprise to see him step up. He clearly does not want to be seen as the reason LeBron would leave but to expect a pay cut when he has given so much to Miami, even before James arrived, would be unexpected.
Meanwhile, Chris Bosh was on the Dan LeBatard show and was asked about his chance to leave via free agency and whether his intentions were to bolt or stay in Miami. According to Bosh,
“Yeah, I mean, I don’t want to go anywhere. I like it here. It’s Miami. Everybody wants to come here. Yeah.”
When asked if he would consider taking another less than max deal or provide the Heat a hometown discount Bosh stated,
“If that’s what it takes.”
So apparently, regardless of what comes of LeBron this off-season, Bosh wants to stay in Miami. While his status as a superstar can be debated, the ability to get a max deal is not. It could be seen as shocking for Bosh to take a pay cut during the two biggest contracts of his career. That is what he is saying though. He loves Miami and wants to keep things the status quo.
The question will be if LeBron or Wade would be willing to take another pay cut after winning a few NBA Championships. The want to stay together for less money will diminish proportionally to the number of rings a group has together. However, it is all just guessing right now and there will be a summer to debate what is to come in in Florida. Regardless of the outcome, the fans in Miami should always be grateful to the group that brought them such a great run.

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