The Houston Rockets made one of the biggest moves of the NBA offseason, acquiring Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns.
Now, the franchise faces a crucial decision regarding the 15-time All-Star. Durant is on an expiring deal and eligible to sign a two-year extension worth up to $122 million. However, it's unclear whether the Rockets are willing to make that kind of financial commitment to Durant, who is entering his age-37 season.
While the two sides still have plenty of time to reach an agreement, teams around the league will certainly be monitoring the 2014 MVP's status ahead of his potential free agency next summer.
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Durant and the Rockets appear not to be in a rush to reach an agreement, though Houston's financial flexibility could ultimately dictate his future. With Tari Eason eligible for an extension this summer and Amen Thompson eligible for one next offseason, the Rockets must carefully balance keeping their young core while working out a deal with Durant.
If no extension is reached and Durant becomes a free agent next offseason, the Miami Heat are reportedly interested in signing the aging superstar, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.
“Durant will forever be a Heat possibility if he makes it to free agency; the Heat always has held him in high regard, but key members of the organization disagreed about which players to offer in trade negotiations with Phoenix in June,” he wrote.
The Heat were ultimately unable to match the Rockets’ trade package for Durant. Still, Miami is currently under the tax threshold this season and projects to have ample cap space next offseason.
If Durant and the Rockets are unable to come to terms on an extension, Miami stands out as a realistic landing spot for the superstar forward.
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