As one of the biggest trade targets in NBA history, it’s no surprise that Kevin Durant has the entire NBA on hold. Following his trade request from Brooklyn, teams around the association have made it a mission to acquire Durant at any cost, and the Miami Heat are among the most aggressive pursuers.
In fact, according to Miami beat writer Barry Jackson, the team is expected to exhaust all options to add the 2x champion to the roster.
Heat GM Andy Elisburg and Nets GM Sean Marks were seen talking this morning in Las Vegas, per sources. Heat continues its pursuit of Kevin Durant.
Andy and Sean were chatting at their hotel. Heat determined to exhaust all options to acquire Durant before pursuing anything else significant. Donovan Mitchell obviously looms as an option, though he hasn’t requested trade and Jazz isn’t shopping him.
Andy and Sean were chatting at their hotel. Heat determined to exhaust all options to acquire Durant before pursuing anything else significant. Donovan Mitchell obviously looms as an option, though he hasn't requested trade and Jazz isn't shopping him. https://t.co/vq4eNmtUL7
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) July 11, 2022
Durant, 33, is one of the best players in basketball right now. This season, despite chaos and turmoil at every turn, he averaged 29.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game on 51.8% shooting.
On the Heat, he could thrive alongside Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, and lead the Heta to prosperity in the East. Of course, some would rather he stay in Brooklyn and try to make things work right where he’s at.
“KD got all the attention in the league right now,” said Baron Davis on the Durant sweepstakes. “Let’s hope he don’t get traded. Let’s hope he stays in Brooklyn and does what he’s supposed to do. I don’t really care, I’m just sitting at home. Warriors won, Lakers going to be better, Clippers going to be better, Knicks gonna get better. I don’t really care where KD go.”
Pat Riley has always been ambitious, and he never wastes an opportunity to make his team better. The problem for him is paying the steep price for KD’s services.
To pull off this trade, the Heat may have to gut the roster and mortgage their future. Clearly, they are considering all their options as the summer rolls on.
