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Fighting words
Wade's verbal jab at Dirk surprising -- and refreshing

It's not often these days that one NBA superstar says anything remotely critical about another superstar. With players making so much money, participating in each other's charity events and sometimes even sharing the same agent, most players learn that it's better to keep any such thoughts private.

So it was somewhat surprising to read Dwyane Wade's comments about Dirk Nowitzki. Wade, it seems, is still miffed that Nowitzki has failed to give the Heat credit for beating the Mavs in last year's Finals. Asked after Thursday's practice in Cleveland whether players are remembered for what they do at the end of games, Wade took a jab at the Dallas star.

''At the end of the day,'' Wade told the Miami Herald, "you're remembered for what you did at the end. ... Dirk says they gave us the championship last year, but he's the reason they lost the championship, because he wasn't the leader that he's supposed to be in the closing moments. That's because of great defense by us, but also he wasn't assertive enough as a leader's supposed to be.''

As Sammy Davis Jr. used to say, "Ouch, babe!"

We're guessing the Dirkster is going to be mumbling some German phrases under his breath when those comments gets relayed to him. He might even say something to himself about how he'd love to have the presence of Shaq inside to create some driving lanes. Either way, look for Dirk to have a little something extra for Miami when the defending champs visit Dallas on Feb. 22 for their final meeting of the regular season.

In the meantime, thanks to D-Wade for having the guts to speak his mind and add a little much-needed spice to the regular season.