NBA Rumors: Why Rockets Denied Celtics Rival In Kevin Durant Pursuit

Pat Riley and the Miami Heat reportedly made a run, but weren’t willing to do what it took to acquire Kevin Durant.

The Phoenix Suns traded Durant to the Houston Rockets on Sunday, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Phoenix received Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft as well as five second-round picks in the deal.

While the Heat engaged in “serious” talks with Phoenix, they “showed an unwillingness” to part with young cornerstone Kel’el Ware, according to Charania.

“The Heat made multiple offers for Durant but ultimately turned down the opportunity to place Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola Jovic, Haywood Highsmith, the No. 20 pick and other draft assets in a deal,” Charania wrote, citing sources.

The 21-year-old Ware was selected with the 14th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. He was named to the All-Rookie team after he averaged 9.3 points and 7.4 rebounds in 22 minutes per game.