'I’m Out': Dwyane Wade Reveals Why He Blocked Deal for Former NBA MVP to Protect Former Heat Teammate

“I had a one-on-one with Riles about it,” Wade said. “It went a little like this: Riles wanted to talk to me about the possibility of of trading for Allen Iverson. That’s one of my favorite players and I love him. I was like, ‘Bet! Let’s do it.’ He said, ‘You in?’ I said, ‘I’m in.’”

“He said, ‘We had to trade UD.’ I said, ‘I’m out.’ That was it. I was out.”

In Wade’s defense, he didn’t think Iverson would be the same caliber of teammate as Haslem. The three-time NBA champion did most of the dirty work for the Heat’s all-time franchise player. He asserted physicality and protected his teammates in certain situations.

Dwyane Wade thought that the Heat wouldn’t have their enforcer if they have to acquire Iverson.

Dwyane Wade reflected on LeBron James’ 23rd NBA season

Most of the star players who have played with Dwyane Wade are retired. LeBron James and Jimmy Butler are the only elite athletes still playing. It’s understandable that Butler is still going strong this season, since he was drafted in 2011. What’s surprising is James’ situation, because he was part of the 2003 draft, the same year Wade was welcomed into the league.

On Saturday, Wade had a moment to reflect on his former co-star’s career.

“Everybody doesn’t get the opportunity to have the blessing, to have the health and all the things that LeBron has had,” Wade said. “The one thing I love about him is that he hasn’t taken one moment for granted. Some people take their time for granted, but LeBron has maximized it.”

James is still going strong and hasn’t announced his retirement plans. Although he has touched on the subject in the past.