Miami Heat emerge as frontrunner in blockbuster Kevin Durant trade — but one rising rookie could make or break the deal
Image via Barry Gossage/ Getty Images
The Kevin Durant sweepstakes are heating up—and the Miami Heat may finally be in the driver's seat. As multiple teams circle the two-time Finals MVP, one name is suddenly dominating the trade conversation: Kel'el Ware.
According to NBA insider, Miami could leap ahead of the pack if they include the 7-foot-4 rookie standout in their offer to the Phoenix Suns. But as of now, Ware hasn't officially been put on the table. That hesitation could be the difference between a blockbuster and a bust.
Kel'el Ware could be the X-factor in Miami Heat's bid to land Kevin Durant in blockbuster trade
Trade conversations between the
Phoenix Suns
and
Miami Heat
are reportedly gaining traction, but one key piece is still missing. According to ClutchPoints insider Brett Siegel, things are progressing—but not quite finalized.
'Although the two sides are not right at the finish line yet in trade talks,' Siegel wrote, 'one player can get them there.'
That player is Kel'el Ware, a rising rookie talent who has caught the attention of Suns executives. 'That would be Kel'el Ware, a rookie standout in Miami's frontcourt who is a giant with his 7-foot-4 wingspan and two-way potential,' Siegel explained.
Phoenix is reportedly fixated on Ware's upside and believes his inclusion could unlock the next stage of negotiations.
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'If the Heat include Ware in a revamped package to what they have already offered, talks with the Suns will reach a whole new level,' Siegel continued, 'as he is the player Phoenix wants in discussions with Miami.'
So far, the Heat have not fully committed to sending Ware in any official proposal. But according to Siegel, there's a sense around the league that the Heat are closest to closing the deal—if they're willing to make that leap.
'This is why many around the league who spoke with ClutchPoints view the Heat as the team that can get over the finish line the easiest,' Siegel wrote.
In the proposed framework, Miami's outgoing assets would include Ware and Andrew Wiggins, while additional teams could be brought in to help Phoenix clear salary and get under the luxury tax.
Also Read:
'Wish you were here'- Amidst trade rumors Kevin Durant pays emotional tribute to NBA legend Kobe Bryant
Kevin Durant
remains one of the league's most dangerous scorers, and he's made it clear he'd welcome a move to Miami. Still, the final call may rest with Heat president
Pat Riley
and whether he's ready to part with Kel'el Ware. With the Suns aiming to cut costs and a half-dozen teams still in the mix, the window to land Durant won't stay open for long. If Miami wants to win the sweepstakes, it's time to push their final chip in.
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