On January 16, 2010, Dwyane Wade became the Miami Heat's career leader in assists. He surpassed the franchise mark previously held by Tim Hardaway during a game against the Denver Nuggets.
The milestone reflected Wade's role as more than a scoring guard. Although he became famous for explosive drives, shot creation and highlight-reel finishes, Wade also handled the ball extensively and regularly created opportunities for teammates. His passing was especially important when Miami's offense relied on him to initiate possessions.
Hardaway, a former Heat point guard and one of the team's most influential early stars, had established the previous assists record. Wade eventually became the franchise's defining player of the 2000s and 2010s, leading Miami to three NBA championships in 2006, 2012 and 2013.
This question refers to a Miami Heat franchise record, not the NBA's all-time assists list. It also asks about assists rather than points, steals or games played—categories in which Wade was likewise a major team contributor.