Arguably the best player to sport a Miami Heat uniform, Dwyane Wade has spent his entire career in South Beach and is, without a doubt, a future Hall-of-Famer. Due in part to his loyalty and success with the franchise, Pat Riley and Micky Arison awarded the deteriorating Wade to a 2-year deal worth over $31 million and a player option for the second year.

After a down season with plenty of disappointment and the Heat’s first missed NBA Playoffs in six years, one has to expect major change ahead for Miami. One plan that Riley may have in mind is to attempt a restructuring of Wade’s contract. The catch, Wade must opt out and is owed $16 million. It is hard to see the All-Star guard give up what could be his final big payday.

However, it would come as no shock if Wade set money and greed aside to give his team the best shot at another championship. He took a pay cut to form the “Big 3” and it paid dividends. Depending on whether Wade is willing to take a hit and how much he gives up, Miami could land a substantial free agent on a lucrative market this summer.

Being the intelligent player and savvy business man Wade is, expect him to opt out and take less money if the Heat promise a big signing or clear cut plan. The extra cap space would also help if Goran Dragic decides to skip town like he has subtly hinted at. Even if Dragic leaves, there are plenty of options and scenarios to play out.

Riley and Wade have a relationship that has produced five appearances in the finals and three championships in a decade. There is no question that they both know what they are doing. If Wade has to take a little less money to propel this team back to the top, so be it. He is at the point in his career where money is no object and only rings matter.

Shane Phillips is a Miami Heat Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow Shane on Twitter @ShaneRantSports, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google. You can also email Shane at [email protected].