The legacy of Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade has been a topic of debate among basketball fans and Bet442 Casino players for years. Some have diminished his legacy due to his association with LeBron James. However, seven-time NBA All-Star Joe Johnson has come to Wade’s defense, reminding everyone of Wade’s extraordinary career before his partnership with James.
“D-Wade was special before LeBron”, Johnson stated during his appearance on the Run It Back podcast with ex-NBA player Lou Williams.
“With LeBron, he was even more special. I think LeBron was so great that people kind of took a down look at D-Wade. We forget he’s a top-three/two guard ever. Nobody gives D-Wade credit. I don’t know why. He’s a bad boy … He’s special.”
Johnson’s comments highlight the fact that many people forget how great Dwyane Wade truly was. His performance was exceptional even before he teamed up with LeBron James. While playing with James benefited Wade and helped him take his game to another level, this shouldn’t take away from his own individual ability.
From 2010-14, Wade, James, and Chris Bosh formed the “Big Three” for the Miami Heat. During this period, Wade’s play never diminished. However, James’ game elevated to another level, making All-Stars like Wade and Bosh appear like ordinary players.
The Heat won two titles in four straight appearances in the NBA Finals. James could have won the regular season MVP each of those years, but was chosen only twice. He was that good.
Despite taking a backseat to James, Wade was battling knee issues and was sidelined for several games for “maintenance” reasons. Yet, he remained an All-Star all four years he played together with James.
Before teaming up with James, Wade had already made a name for himself. In 2006, he led the Heat to their first NBA championship by defeating the Dallas Mavericks in six games. Wade was named Finals MVP in what some call one of the greatest performances in a series. He averaged 34.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 2.7 steals, and one block. It was just his third season in the league.
In 2009, Wade led the NBA in scoring at 30.2 points while also averaging 7.5 assists, five rebounds, 2.2 steals, and 1.3 blocks. He shot 49 per cent from the field.
It’s unfair to base Wade’s legacy solely on his years playing alongside James, at least in the opinion of all-time greats like Johnson. His early career achievements and his resilience during the Big Three years are a testament to his greatness.
As fans, it’s crucial to remember the full scope of Wade’s career and give credit where it’s due. Wade’s legacy is not just about his partnership with LeBron James, but about his individual contributions to the game of basketball.
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Wade doesn’t need validation from anyone. When Wade came into the league, I remember a conversation I had with some sports fans. When I was asked who was the better player that first year, I told them LeBron, but only because I felt Wade’s acrobatics and crashing to the floor would result in a shorter career.