After missing 23 games with that shoulder injury, D. Wade is finally back in the lineup for the Heat. We knew he wouldn't start, but he made his return with just under four minutes left in the first quarter. The early stats: one point, one assist, and a couple of turnovers. The good news for Heat fans is that Wade got to the line on an aggressive take to the basket after splitting a double team. It will be a while before he's back to 100 percent, but it's a good sign that he's attacking the rim with no fear.
Wade's injury forced the rest of the team to step up, especially the chronically lazy Shaquille O'Neal. Shaq has been dominant in Wade's absence, carrying the team to a 16-7 record and the division lead. With Shaq missing almost the entire first half of the season, and Wade being out for much of the second half, the Heat's superstars could be well rested for the playoffs and in a prime spot to make another run at the title.
