Rumor: Dwyane Wade Worried Donovan Mitchell Not Happy in Utah

 

When Dwyane Wade was brought in as a part-owner of the Utah Jazz by billionaire Ryan Smith this year, many eyebrows were raised. After all, Wade is synonymous with the Miami Heat. But there was definitely a method to the madness. 

NBA insider Brian Windhorst said on his podcast today that one of the main reasons Smith brought in Wade was to ensure that Donovan Mitchell would be happy in Utah long-term. 

"I think Dwyane Wade is seriously concerned about Donovan Mitchell’s desire to stay [in Utah] long-term." 👀

per @WindhorstESPN

(via The Hoop Collective Podcast) pic.twitter.com/8BhZ2q658c

— NBA Analysis Network (@HoopAnalysisNet) June 29, 2021

"I do think that Dwyane Wade is seriously concerned about Donovan Mitchell's desire to stay there long-term," said Windhorst.

Yes, Mitchell has already signed the super max rookie extension for 5 years, $195 million, however, he does have a player option after the 4th year, and of course, we've seen many superstars engineer their way into trades in recent years well before their contracts were up. 

Windhorst says, "the way Donovan Mitchell saw this season unfold, particularly the way his ankle injury was handled in the playoffs, really unnerved him, and he was in a bit of a rough spot with the franchise." 

The Jazz were unexpectedly eliminated by the Kawhi Leonard-less Los Angeles Clippers in the second round, largely due to Mitchell being severely hampered by his ankle in the final two games.

In addition to bringing in Wade, the Jazz are continuing to make other moves that would appeal to Mitchell, including forcing general manager Dennis Lindsey to step aside into an "advisory role", largely because of the deteriorating relationship between Lindsey and coach Quin Snyder. 

Watch for Wade to help influence many more changes behind the scenes to ensure their blossoming superstar remains in Utah for a long time to come.

Photo Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports