Flash or flash in the pan: Will Dwyane Wade’s Redeem Team play carryover to Miami?

He’s back. Back as Flash, the superstar who led Miami to the 2006 NBA Title. And back as an elite player on par with Kobe, LeBron, and CP3.

Following two years of injuries and disappointment, Dwyane Wade has used Redeem Team to re-assert his greatness. Now healthy, he’s soared over, around, and through opponents during America’s exhibition tune-ups and Olympic opener versus China.

But the hype and excitement seems somewhat premature. 7-for-7 from the floor and 19 points on the Yao-Yi duo is different than dominating a full 82 games with Miami.

Will Flash’s 2006 renaissance continue in South Beach next year? Or will he get injured and frustrated with a rebuilding Heat squad?

The weights have helped. Big time. While recovering from injury, Wade finally realized he had to get stronger and dedicated himself to the gym.

“I’m healthy again, I’m as healthy as I’ve been in two years, and I’m excited not only about this opportunity, but I’m excited about the rest of my career because now I know what it takes, and that weight room has become my best friend." (ESPN)

A more muscular frame will provide protection when Wade attacks the basket and draws contact. After all, driving aggressively and getting-to-the-line has been the superstar’s bread-and butter.

That said Wade knew he had to evolve. So he has added a catch-and-shoot jumper to diversify his offensive game and provide an alternative to the pounding his body takes when driving to the hoop.

The two-guard has done his part. Will the Heat do theirs? After all, Miami celebrated their 20^th year in the NBA by going 15-67 –the exact record they posted their first year in the league back in 1988-89.

South Beach is set at the two, three, and four spots. Wade and newly acquired Shawn Marion should continue to mesh as a duo and look for rookie Michael Beasley to make an immediate impact.

The five and one spots are a different story. Udonis Haslem and Joel Anthony can fill-in at center, but the club would be better served finding a true post. And after losing Jason Williams to free agency, the Heat is considering all options at point guard.

Still, a healthy Wade can mask most problems and keep Miami competitive. look for the Flash-show to continue next year and beyond.

Will Wade continue his fine play with Miami next year? Or will he struggle? Get at us in the comment box below below and come back to HoopsVibe The Blog for more NBA tidbits. Photo courtesy of killbucky.