Dwyane Wade is still on paternity leave following the birth of his daughter, Kaavia James Union Wade. The Miami Heat star is taking significant time to spend with his wife and newborn, but it appears that his return is on the horizon. Erik Spoelstra told Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald that Wade would return “soon” but he didn't offer a specific game.
Wade played his last game on November 5, a five-point victory over the Detroit Pistons. Wade poured in 18 points to help lead Miami to the win. Since that game, the Heat have been slumping. They're 2-5 since Wade left on paternity leave.
The Heat entered this season with playoff aspirations, but their slow start may have Heat fans rethinking their chances of playing in the postseason. At 6-10, the Heat are on the outside looking in. It is still far too early to predict how things will ultimately play out, but there are reasons for head coach Erik Spoelstra to be concerned.
The Eastern Conference was thought to be at its weakest in years, but the East has been much more competitive than anyone could have predicted. The Sixers, Celtics, Raptors, and Bucks are the class of the conference and they all have dreams of making the NBA Finals. Moreover, the Pacers, Pistons, Magic, and Hornets look much better than most expected.
The East doesn't have the same depth as the Western Conference, but it won't be easy for the Heat to climb back into the playoff picture. Perhaps the imminent return from their veteran leader will give Miami a boost.
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