5. New York Knicks
The New York Knicks are under another roster upheaval. They traded for Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose, are likely to sign center Joakim Noah, and have a gaping hole at shooting guard. With some cap space still remaining, maybe they can lure in Dwyane Wade.
It would be a tough sell for Phil Jackson and Co. to pitch Wade that would be joining a successful team. No one knows how well a potential unit of Rose, Noah, and Carmelo Anthony are going to mesh. Melo and Rose need the ball in their hands to play well and Noah is coming off a mediocre, injury-riddled season. Wade is fading as well, so he might not be the best piece to fit in with that trio.
However, maybe a reduced role is what Wade needs. He wouldn’t have to carry the scoring load and could team with a long-time USA basketball teammate in Anthony.
Wade could also be a facilitator in certain situations. Given how Rose and Anthony are more known for their ability to score, Wade could back off and play a combo guard role.
Signing Dwyane Wade will be a tough sell, but if he’s convinced by the pieces in place, then this could work.
Next: 4. Mavericks