Wade Healthy For Game 1

Added on May 31, 2011 by Scott in

NBA

There has been rampant speculation flying around hoop circles for the last few days concerning Dwyane Wade’s health leading up to the NBA Finals. Is he banged up? Fatigued? Or just suffering through the normal wear and tear after enduring over 90 games since last October? According to Wade, he’s “not hurt,” and is ready to go for tonight’s Game 1 versus Dallas.

Wade sat out Sunday’s contact drills session, but returned to full practice yesterday. He has downplayed the rumors regarding the condition of his left shoulder, which was surgically repaired in 2007, but the shoulder was treated during the the Eastern Conference Finals.

Adding fuel to “what’s wrong with Wade” bonfire is his shooting struggles in the playoffs. A 50% shooter in the regular season, Wade has dipped to 46% in 15 postseason games. In addition, he is only 7-29 from three-point range, and attempted only five shots from beyond the arc against Chicago.

Wade, who has battled knee, hip and shoulder injuries throughout his career, has been down this road before. Questions about his health have followed him for years. Playing hurt comes with the job, so even if he’s not 100%, don’t expect him to turn diva and start complaining.

Lest we forget, Wade was spectacular in the 2006 Finals versus the Mavericks. After falling behind 0-2, he took control and scored 42, 36, 43 and 36 points in winning the next four games to capture the championship and a Finals MVP trophy. He finished the series averaging 34.7 points.

Of course, this time around he has LeBron James to lean on. Wade doesn’t have do don a Superman cape every night. However, his penchant for converting clutch shots in the spotlight shouldn’t be ignored. He, not LeBron, is the one with a ring. If the Heat are to win a second title, Wade must be a major factor.

Game 1 tips tonight at 9pm in Miami. The Heat are 5-point favorites.

Source: ESPN.com