Wade would then become a free agent as Chicago looks to rebuild.
Dwyane Wade’s homecoming may be cut short.
Wade and the Chicago Bulls are expected to reach a buyout agreement in the coming months, according to ESPN’s Nick Friedell, who writes that the 35-year-old guard “isn't long for the organization's future.”
The Bulls signed the three-time NBA champion to a two-year, $47 million deal last summer, but after trading Jimmy Butler to the Timberwolves, Chicago is poised to rebuild around its young core. That core ostensibly includes Zach LaVine and Kris Dunn — the two players recouped in the Butler deal — as well as No. 7 overall pick Lauri Markkanen.
Wade posted the worst season of his career since his rookie year, averaging 18.3 points on a career-worst 43 percent shooting from the field. He appeared in 60 games for the Bulls last season, battling knick-knack injuries along the way. Wade averaged 15 points through six playoff games against the Boston Celtics before Chicago was eliminated in the first round.
If bought out, it is expected Wade pursues a reunion with LeBron James, with whom he won back-to-back NBA championship in Miami in 2012 and 2013. He could take a minimum deal to join the Cavaliers or sign a one-year deal elsewhere before joining forces with LeBron in 2018, wherever he decides to go.
Wade, James, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul each become unrestricted free agents next summer.