Heat would be making grave mistake in targeting Kevin Durant

"In theory, the Heat would accomplish their goal of landing a star player by signing KD next summer. There's one big problem with that. If KD doesn't sign an extension with the Houston Rockets before next summer arrives, he's likely going to be looking for one more big payday before the over-38 NBA rule comes into play. That's the CBA provision that discourages teams from extending contracts to players over the age of 38 for four years or more."

"The last thing the Heat needs is to sign KD to a three or four-year deal, one that would likely be quite costly, a couple of years too late. But because of the Heat's reported infatuation with KD, which has been evident over the last few years, particularly this past offseason, this is something that can't be completely considered off the table."

"Would it be surprising if it were reported next summer that the Heat are preparing to offer KD a huge free-agency contract? I wouldn't. And neither should you. How they get there with the Tyler Herro, Norman Powell, and Nikola Jovic contract situations hanging over their heads, who knows? However, the Heat's front office could certainly find a way to put itself in a position to get in on the KD game should he hit free agency."

The Miami Heat have repeatedly pursued Kevin Durant and plan to consider him a possibility if he reaches free agency in 2026. Durant will likely seek one more large contract if he does not sign an extension with the Houston Rockets before 2026. The CBA's over-38 rule discourages four-year-plus extensions for players older than 38, reducing the appeal of a long-term deal. Signing a three- or four-year, expensive contract in 2026 would commit multiple seasons to a player who will be past his prime. Existing contract issues with Tyler Herro, Norman Powell, and Nikola Jovic complicate roster construction. The team is not a single addition away from a championship, making a costly Durant signing a strategic risk.

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