Kevin Durant's time with the Phoenix Suns could soon be over as trade rumors begin to circulate ahead of the offseason. Though they remained in place in February during the trade deadline, there are reports that a team is within striking distance of securing the services of the former MVP.

As rumors begin to fly, it seems that the Miami Heat are now at the top of the list to sign Durant.

Kevin Durant to the Miami Heat?

NBA Trade Rumors: Could Kevin Durant Fulfill Jimmy Butler's Dream NBA Trade Rumors: Could Kevin Durant Fulfill Jimmy Butler's Dream
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The Phoenix Suns hold so much expectation from fans with the super team trio of Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. However, the Valley squad's performance did not pan out after a poor regular season performance. Currently, the Suns are 10th in the Western Conference.

With the postseason in doubt, Phoenix might decide to rebuild or retool, and trading Durant could be their way out. According to a report by Bleacher Report, the Miami Heat are a strong contender in acquiring Durant's services.

For the Heat, this is a no-brainer. Miami still hasn't found a replacement for Jimmy Butler, and acquiring a player of Durant's stature would immediately make them contenders for a championship. The proposed trade has Miami sending two first-round draft picks and a young prospect, Kel'el Ware, to Phoenix in exchange for Durant.

The trade makes sense for Miami, but Phoenix's willingness to trade away one of the league's top scorers is more confusing.

Last month, a rumor said that Durant should go back to the Warriors. However, the Golden State ditched the idea to explore the new chemistry with Butler.

Suns Need to Prioritize Long-Term Plans By Trading Durant

While Kevin Durant is still an elite player, even in the latter stages of his career, Phoenix's willingness to explore trading him is an indication that they may be changing their long-term approach.

Injuries and uneven play have plagued the Suns this year, and it has been hard for the team to get into a rhythm. If Phoenix does decide to rebuild, trading for draft picks and young pieces from Miami could set them up for a brighter future.

Durant's departure would provide cap space flexibility for the Suns to rebuild their roster around Devin Booker and other youth. Although releasing Durant might appear to be a gamble, it might provide the Suns with the chance to concentrate on long-term success instead of short-term solutions.

Durant's contribution to the Suns is undeniably great. The two-time NBA champion has a lot of energy to give as he averaged 26.9 points per game in the 2023-24 season, according to Sports Tak. His recent game against the Cleveland Cavaliers speaks volumes about his monster scoring, where he blasted 42 points with a 123-112 getaway win.

If the Heat won't pick his mess, Durant's next stop could be the Houston Rockets.