Dwyane Wade declines 2015-16 option with Heat, becomes free agent

Miami Heat president Pat Riley might need to take a double dose of Aspirin because one of the greatest players to ever suit up for his team seems to be heading for the door.

As of 12:01 a.m. July 1, it will be up to Riley to ensure said door is a revolving one in order to bring back Heat legend Dwyane Wade.

Wade declined to exercise his 2015-16 player option, thus placing him in the free-agent pool early Wednesday morning. The option year would have paid Wade $16.1 million for next season.

This development may not come as a complete surprise, since Wade hinted earlier at such a move. Talk of him having to take yet another pay cut was countered by the star player's posturing for a raise. Riley has been adamant that the Heat want to retain Wade for the remainder of his career, but Wade has interest from both Los Angeles teams and would likely have plenty of suitors if he searched for a new home in earnest.

The 12-year veteran has spent his entire career with the Heat, tallying career averages of 24.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 5.9 assists. He's the most decorated player in franchise history, with three NBA championships on his impressive resume and franchise records for career points, assists, and steals.

It's difficult to picture Wade in any other uniform, and the most likely scenario remains Wade and the Heat coming to terms on a multiyear deal - both because it makes sense, and so Wade doesn't get chokeslammed. While initial reports had his demands around $20 million annually, ESPN's Ramona Shelburne reports that Wade is seeking a deal in the neighborhood of three years and $48 million.