The Miami Heat have always been aggressive in their pursuit of championship glory. With their current roster falling short of elite status, Pat Riley and the Heat front office could be eyeing a blockbuster trade to bring in a generational talent—Kevin Durant. The only way to make it happen? Trading their beloved leader, Jimmy Butler.
A Butler-for-Durant swap isn’t straightforward, but with the right mix of players, picks, and trade exceptions, the Heat could construct an enticing package that the Phoenix Suns might actually consider. Let’s break down what a deal could look like and how it could impact both franchises.
The Trade Package: What Would It Take?
For Phoenix to part ways with Kevin Durant, they would need a combination of All-Star talent, young prospects, and draft assets. The Heat’s best offer could look something like this:
Miami Heat Receive:
- Kevin Durant (F)
Phoenix Suns Receive:
- Jimmy Butler (F)
- Tyler Herro (G)
- Nikola Jović (F)
- 2027 First-Round Pick (Unprotected)
- 2029 First-Round Pick (Top-3 Protected)
This package gives the Suns a proven playoff performer in Butler, a dynamic scoring guard in Herro, and a promising young forward in Jović. More importantly, the two first-round picks provide Phoenix with valuable assets to retool for the future.
Why the Heat Make This Move
Miami’s culture thrives on star power, and Kevin Durant would instantly elevate the team’s championship aspirations. Durant’s scoring ability and efficiency would complement Bam Adebayo’s defensive prowess, while allowing Erik Spoelstra to design an offense that maximizes spacing and three-point shooting.
Superstar swap? Exploring the trade package that could send Jimmy Butler to Phoenix and land Kevin Durant in Miami!A core of Durant, Adebayo, and Terry Rozier could be formidable in the Eastern Conference.
Additionally, Miami has struggled with late-game shot creation outside of Butler. Durant, one of the best closers in NBA history, would provide the Heat with a go-to scorer who can take over games when needed.
Why the Suns Consider It
Phoenix is in win-now mode, but they lack the depth and defensive grit to truly contend. Butler brings a proven playoff mindset, toughness, and leadership, which could be valuable alongside Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. While losing Durant is a massive blow, Butler’s ability to perform in high-pressure moments could keep the Suns competitive in a brutal Western Conference.
Tyler Herro’s addition provides a much-needed secondary playmaker and scorer, while Jović offers developmental upside. Most importantly, the draft capital gives Phoenix flexibility to explore future moves if the current core doesn’t work out.
Potential Roadblocks
While this trade looks strong on paper, a few complications could arise:
- Miami’s Willingness to Part with Butler: Jimmy Butler is the heart and soul of the Heat. Would they be willing to move him for an aging superstar in Durant?
- Phoenix’s Interest in Butler: Would the Suns prefer younger assets instead of a win-now piece like Butler?
- Durant’s Desire to Play in Miami: If KD doesn’t want to be moved or prefers another destination, this deal falls apart quickly.
The idea of trading Jimmy Butler is painful for Miami fans, but acquiring Kevin Durant could give the Heat a legitimate chance to win a title in the next two seasons. If Phoenix is open to restructuring their roster and values Butler’s leadership, this trade could benefit both sides.
While the NBA landscape constantly shifts, one thing remains clear: Miami will always be in the mix for the biggest stars. If Durant becomes available, expect Pat Riley to do whatever it takes to bring him to South Beach.
