Heat Beat: Every game Wade

MIAMI – As Miami gets set to play another back-to-back with a game in Dallas Sunday night, one storyline has developed that isn't really much of a story. Unless, of course, your name is Dwyane Wade. 

Wade has quietly played in every game this season for Miami, and while that doesn't sound like much, the reality is it's a big early season step for Wade and the Heat. That's especially true since the Heat's early season schedule setup has been brutal. This is already the third set of back-to-back games in two weeks.

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The Heat star has grown tired of health questions, and who can blame him? Any time you touch on the subject of his health and status for games his usual answer these days is "I'm fine."

But while he hates the questions, the topic has some validity because of past injury issues and last year's "maintenance program" developed to keep Wade fresh for the playoffs. Yet, six games into the season, maybe it's time to stop the questions.

Do I believe Wade will play all 82 games this season like he wants to do? Probably not. The NBA season is a grind, and at 32 years old, Wade will likely need a break here and there for a minor issue. That's to be expected.

But it's becoming clear that Wade is embracing his role as a primary option again, and in particular his role as the team's closer down the stretch. He did it again in Saturday's win over Minnesota. He led the way with 25 points and made some big shots down the stretch when the T-Wolves made a comeback push.

I've already discussed Chris Bosh's transformation to being the top guy again in an earlier blog. You combine that fact with Wade's early season health and it's easy to be optimistic about the Heat early in the season.

We know all of this can change with one twisted ankle or overextension of a hamstring, but for now, Wade is quieting people the only way he knows how -- by playing every game and being productive.