NBA: New Thunder recruits Anthony, George try to lure Wade to OKC
Dwyane Wade. AP FILE PHOTO
The Oklahoma City Thunder has managed to create its own version of a “Big Three” by acquiring perennial All-Stars Paul George and Carmelo Anthony to pair up with last season’s Most Valuable Player Russell Westbrook.
But apparently, the organization is not done making moves, as the trio looks to add another superstar to the fray.
Three-time NBA champion Dwyane Wade recently agreed to a buy-out from the Chicago Bulls and both Anthony and George have expressed their desire to team up with the 35-year-old guard.
READ: Dwyane Wade, Bulls agree on buyout
“I would love to have him here in Oklahoma City, but am I allowed to say that? Is that tampering?” the newly acquired Anthony said during the Thunder’s media day, as relayed by The Score.
After getting notification that Wade is officially a free agent, Melo added: “Oh, he’s free now? Come on, you know where you belong, D. That’s all I’m going to say.”
George, who also joined the team via a blockbuster trade this off season, likewise shared his willingness to have the 12-time All-Star in their roster.
“It’d be great to get D-Wade here,” he was quoted as saying by the Daily Thunder. “I’ll be in his phone, texts, his DMs, his Snapchat, whatever I gotta do to try to get this dude here.”
Meanwhile, Wade and Anthony have a tight bond, having been teammates several times with Team USA and coming from the same star-studded 2003 draft class. George, on the other hand, worked out with Wade this off season in California.
Thunder General Manager Sam Presti has expressed the same desire to sign the crafty veteran, claiming he’ll be chasing after him “like the rest of the league,” per ESPN’s Royce Young.
The team’s front office, however, will have to come up with a strong push, as Wade has also received interest from the likes of the Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs and the Miami Heat. Khristian Ibarrola /ra
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