Kevin Durant was reportedly open to joining the Miami Heat before the NBA trade deadline, but a potential blockbuster deal never materialized. According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne and Brian Windhorst, the Phoenix Suns explored the possibility of swapping Durant for Jimmy Butler, who had requested a trade from Miami.
Butler had listed Phoenix as his preferred destination, prompting the Suns to seriously consider acquiring the five-time All-Star. Miami, however, debated cutting Golden State out of the equation entirely and dealing Butler directly to Phoenix for Durant.
Durant, a two-time NBA champion, was reportedly receptive to the idea of playing in Miami. However, the Heat ultimately backed away from the proposal, feeling it would be too significant a gamble for their future.
With no agreement reached, Butler was traded to the Golden State Warriors, and Durant remained with the Suns. The failed negotiations left both teams moving forward with their current rosters as they push for playoff positioning.
Durant, 36, has been a key contributor for Phoenix this season, averaging 26.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in 36.2 minutes per game. His scoring production continues to be elite, but the Suns have struggled with consistency.
Phoenix currently sits at 26-25, placing them ninth in the Western Conference. The Heat, meanwhile, are 25-25 and hold the seventh seed in the East as they attempt to solidify their standing.
Had the trade gone through, it would have marked another major career shift for Durant, who has already played for the Thunder, Warriors, Nets, and Suns.
