Cavs may face uphill climb in keeping Dean Wade

The Cavaliers would like to keep Dean Wade. Whether they’ll be able to is another question.

According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, league sources expect Wade to leave Cleveland in unrestricted free agency, with several teams expected to pursue the veteran forward once the market opens.

That doesn’t necessarily mean Wade is headed elsewhere. But it does reveal what many around the league already recognize. Namely, Wade’s value may exceed what his statistics suggest.

The 29-year-old has spent all seven of his NBA seasons with the Cavs, evolving from an undrafted free agent on a two-way contract into one of the team’s most trusted defensive pieces.

While Wade averaged just 5.8 points and 4.2 rebounds this past season, his impact has rarely been measured by box-score production.

At 6-foot-9, he has built a reputation as a versatile defender capable of guarding multiple positions. During the playoffs alone, the Cavs regularly assigned him to players such as Cade Cunningham, Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram and Jalen Brunson.

So without a doubt, Wade’s versatility and ability to impact winning without needing touches make him an appealing target for teams searching for complementary pieces.

Jake Fischer of The Stein Line previously reported that the Cavs were expected to prioritize re-signing Wade over fellow free agent Keon Ellis. However, Fischer also suggested rival teams could be willing to offer Wade a significant portion of the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.

Michael Scotto of HoopsHype has likewise reported that multiple teams are expected to show interest.

That could leave the Cavs in a difficult position.

Again, the front office does remain hopeful of retaining Wade, league sources tell Hoops Wire, but the Cavs also understand that free agency may create opportunities elsewhere that are difficult to match.

Bottom line? Both sides appear open to a reunion. Whether the market ultimately allows for one may be the bigger question.

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