The Heat's final offer for Durant has been revealed: a 5-for-2 proposal fell short against the Rockets, and the Suns rejected the request for a potential asset.

On August 16, Beijing time, the Heat and the Nets completed a 2-for-1 trade, sending Haywood Highsmith and an unprotected second-round pick in 2032 to the Nets in exchange for a protected second-round pick in 2026 from the Nets (protected for the top 55 picks). Subsequently, Heat reporter Barry Jackson mentioned the initial offer made by the Heat for Durant, which was ultimately rejected by the Suns.

“Insiders revealed that the Heat were willing to trade Wiggins, Rozier, Highsmith, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and the 20th pick from the June draft for Durant and Cody Martin. The Suns sought to acquire Jaquez Jr., Jovic, Highsmith, the 20th pick, and a swap of draft rights (also including Wiggins/Rozier). Therefore... Jovic and Jokubaitis (the 20th pick) need to work hard to justify this decision, making it a tough choice for the Heat.”

In June of this year, the Suns found themselves in a bidding war, actively shopping Kevin Durant in hopes of receiving the best possible return. The Heat competed until the end, but the Suns ultimately chose to trade Durant to the Houston Rockets—transforming a young team into a powerhouse in an instant.

The final agreement saw the Rockets sending Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick from this year's draft, and five second-round picks in exchange for Durant. This offer far exceeded what the Heat could afford.

Heat legend Dwyane Wade never believed Durant intended to join Miami, possibly because such a move would evoke memories of LeBron James' decision.