It has been 15 years since Dwyane Wade helped deliver the Miami Heat organization their first NBA championship. They beat the Dallas Mavericks in 2006 during the Finals that season; Wade averaged 34.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.7 steals in six games and was named Finals MVP. In a series that the Mavericks and their fans are still protesting to this day.
However, that Finals run from the Miami Heat was one of the best in league history. Wade averaged 24.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and two steals in the first round against the Chicago Bulls, beating them in six games. Wade averaged 27.6 points in the semi-finals, 6.0 rebounds, 6.6 assists, and 2.4 steals and beating the New Jersey Nets in five games. Finally, in the Eastern Conference Finals, Wade averaged 26.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.8 steals and beating the Detriot Pistons in six games.
NBA Insider Cuffs The Legend asked Twitter if Mitchell was going to have the same type of playoff run as his mentor Dwyane Wade in 2006?
“Donovan Mitchell gonna have a playoff run like 2006 DWade? Tweeted Cuffs The Legend.
LeBron James thinks it is a possibility.
James replied to Cuffs, “Very possible! Looking as much so far. That kid can flat out GO!!!!!! TOUGH!!!!”
Donovan Mitchell led the Jazz to victory with 37 points, three rebounds, and four assists. Beating the Clippers 117-111 and take a 2-0 series lead. The series will now shift to Los Angles for the next two games.
About the Author
Landon Buford is an accomplished sports and entertainment journalist based in Richardson, Texas, with over a decade of experience covering the NBA, WNBA, NFL, WWE, MLB, and the entertainment industry. Known for delivering high-impact stories and headline-making interviews, Buford has earned a global audience through content that blends insider access with compelling storytelling.
He previously served as director of editorial and brand communications at PlayersTV, where he helped shape the platform’s editorial voice and brand identity. He is also the founder and editor-in-chief of LandonBuford.com—an independent outlet with more than 1.6 million views and syndication from major platforms including Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo Sports. Buford’s interviews with stars like Gary Payton, Kevin Durant, Mark Cuban and Chris Paul showcase his talent for meaningful, in-depth conversations.
His bylines have appeared in Sports Illustrated, Forbes, Heavy.com, Meta’s Bulletin and One37pm, where he has contributed exclusive interviews, breaking news and cultural insights. At Heavy.com, his work drew more than a million views in just eight months, and at One37pm, it contributed to record-breaking traffic numbers.
His work highlights the intersection of sports, fashion, music, and entrepreneurship—showcasing how athletes and entertainers use their platforms to inspire change, influence trends, and shape culture beyond the game. Landon has interviewed a wide range of figures from the NBA, NFL, and entertainment industries, consistently bringing authentic voices and untold stories to the forefront.
In addition to his journalism, Buford is an entrepreneur and content creator, dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and driving meaningful conversations across media platforms. His passion for storytelling, culture, and innovation continues to make him a respected voice in the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment media.
