Udonis Haslem recently opened up on the ‘OGs’ Podcast, divulging a fascinating snippet of NBA history: the Miami Heat’s near attempt to trade for Allen Iverson to pair with Dwyane Wade.
The seasoned forward recounted his personal experience of finding out he was being considered in trade talks for the NBA icon.
“Like the godfather always said, when a whale is available, gotta go get a whale. That’s what we always understood, because I remember my name was in the hat one time. We were talking about making a move for Iverson. And my name got thrown in the hat a little bit, and I was all shook up and s**t. But Dwyane Wade was like, man, that’s Allen Iverson.
But once again, I think whatever reason that didn’t work, I don’t know if the dynamics with him and Dwyane Wade would have worked at that time. So I think dynamically, it didn’t work. But my a** was almost out of here. How can I argue if you bring in Allen Iverson I mean, it sounds good, but I still had that little feeling in your stomach. You still got that little feeling,” Haslem said.
The potential acquisition of Iverson, one of the most electrifying players in NBA history, was undoubtedly a thrilling prospect. However, Haslem mentioned concerns about the on-court chemistry between Allen Iverson and Dwyane Wade. Despite the excitement surrounding the possible addition of Iverson to the team, Haslem confessed to having mixed emotions about the idea.
This disclosure highlights the Heat’s ambitious attempts to assemble a championship-caliber squad around Dwyane Wade. Although the trade for Iverson did not come to fruition, it underscores the franchise’s readiness to make bold moves to bolster their success chances. Haslem’s honest recount also underscores the emotional and uncertain nature of trade rumors for players, even when the potential addition is as legendary as Allen Iverson.
Ultimately, the Heat’s choice to retain their core, including Udonis Haslem, proved fruitful. The team continued to build around Wade and eventually achieved championship glory, cementing their legacy in NBA history.
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