The Miami Heat remain in trade rumors surrounding Kevin Durant, with Pat Riley reportedly interested in replacing Jimmy Butler’s star presence to boost the team’s title hopes.
ESPN’s Bobby Marks proposed a three-team trade scenario involving the Heat, Suns, and Nets:
- Heat receive: Kevin Durant
- Suns receive: Nikola Jovic, Andrew Wiggins, a 2025 first-round pick (via Golden State), a 2030 first-round pick (via Miami), and a 2026 second-round pick (via Lakers
- Nets receive: Duncan Robinson, Keshad Johnson, a 2029 first-round swap (top-4 protected), a 2031 first-round swap (top-4 protected), and a 2031 second-round pick (from the better of Indiana/Miami)
Marks explained that Miami’s best chance at landing Durant could come if other suitors like Dallas or Houston opt to wait for different stars. His proposed deal would save the Suns about $20 million for the 2025-26 season—money they could use to improve elsewhere or reduce luxury tax costs.
Notably, Miami would keep Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro, allowing Erik Spoelstra to build around a strong core, though it would be up to Riley to fill out the roster with quality depth.
Should the Heat Consider a “Gap Year”?
If a Durant trade doesn’t materialize, some analysts suggest the Heat should consider taking a step back for a season. Dan Favale of Bleacher Report argued this approach could give the franchise flexibility and over $30 million in cap space next summer, along with their own first-round pick.
Favale wrote, “Without a clear path forward, Miami might be better off not rushing into a major trade or pretending their current roster can compete at a high level without making a big addition.”
By adopting a patient strategy, Miami could become a major player in next year’s free agent market. In the meantime, they might look into smaller moves, including potential stopgap options.
Wiggins a Fit for the Lakers?
Even if Miami leans toward a reset, one name being floated around is Andrew Wiggins. On his “Buha’s Block” podcast, The Athletic’s Jovan Buha said Wiggins could be a valuable pickup for the Lakers, who are seeking help on the wing.
“I like Wiggins a lot,” Buha noted. “A deal centered around Rui Hachimura and matching salary could work. As long as the Lakers don’t have to give up one of their top six players, someone like Gabe Vincent might be worth moving in a deal like that.”
What’s Next for Miami?
It’s shaping up to be a crucial offseason for the Heat. Whether they land Durant or pivot to a different plan, the decisions Pat Riley makes in the coming weeks will determine the trajectory of their 2025 campaign.
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