Former NBA champion cites South Beach as ideal landing spot for Durant

Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant. Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports

Former NBA champion cites South Beach as ideal landing spot for Kevin Durant

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 5/14/24

With the punitive measures of the new second tax apron, the Phoenix Suns are in a tough spot. They don't have the roster depth necessary to compete at the highest level in the modern NBA. They also don't have any tradable assets or available cap space. As such, they may need to break up their big three to have some room to maneuver during the postseason.

Devin Booker, 27, is just entering his prime and is seen as the franchise cornerstone. Bradley Beal has a no-trade clause on his contract. That leaves Kevin Durant as the most logical trade chip at owner Mat Ishbia's disposal.

According to Kendrick Perkins, who was speaking on a recent episode of ESPN's "First Take," the Miami Heat would be a logical landing spot for the future Hall of Fame forward.

“We know the Miami Heat went to two NBA Finals. Jimmy Butler wasn’t able to get them over the hump," Perkins said. "You get a guy like Kevin Durant in there. And also, the Miami Heat, they got some pieces. They got some pieces over there that’s eye candy.”

.@KendrickPerkins says Miami is the perfect destination for KD

Thoughts? @stephenasmith @ShannonSharpe pic.twitter.com/KyUw0suEBt
— First Take (@FirstTake) May 13, 2024

Should Phoenix decide to part ways with Durant, it will undoubtedly want a considerable return. The Suns need young talent, draft picks and potentially an impactful role player. Only then will Phoenix be able to build around Beal and Booker.

Losing Durant would be a major blow to the Suns' chances of contending. Yet, even with new head coach Mike Budenholzer at the helm, there simply isn't enough defense or rotation depth for the franchise to navigate the postseason.

Furthermore, sending Durant to the Heat would ensure the Suns do right by one of the best players in the world. Other talent around the NBA will take notice of that gesture.

Phoenix may have to sacrifice its best player to get the franchise back on track. That loss could be Miami's gain. In truth, it would be a move that suited both teams.

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