Rockets Rumors: Rival free agency suitors for Kevin Durant already circling

The Houston Rockets don't have Kevin Durant on the books past this season. It seems that a frontrunner for his services in 2026 free agency has already emerged.

If I told you it was the Heat, would you be surprised? If so, you need to wake up.

Sure, the Heat have been (outside of a miracle NBA Finals run) less relevant than usual for the last half-decade. They're still a sleeping giant. Even when you don't think the Heat are in the mix, guess what?

They're in the mix.

Miami is one of the most desirable markets in the NBA. They've got a storied history. They're always a threat to sign the league's marquee players.

It seems like they might have eyes for Kevin Durant.

Rockets' rival for Kevin Durant's services already emerging

The Miami Herald's Barry Jackson thinks the Heat will be interested in Durant should he shake loose in free agency.

Why wouldn't they? Again, free agency has been a staple of the Heat's approach to roster building.

They'll have eyes for Durant no matter how they fare in 2025-26. If the Heat miss the playoffs, their philosophy dictates that they should try to improve the roster - this organization does not tank.

By contrast, the Rockets just wrapped up an extensive tanking process. Acquiring Durant was intended to be the final touch on their championship-caliber roster. Losing him after one season would be a disaster.

Luckily, it's unlikely to happen.

Rockets, Kevin Durant likely to reach an agreement

There are reasonable explanations for the Rockets' unwillingness to extend Durant to this point.

They start with Tari Eason. He hasn't been extended yet either. The Rockets are likely looking to settle with the younger player before determining what to do with the veteran.

That speaks to a broader obstacle between Durant and the Rockets. Yes, they're officially in title contention mode. That doesn't mean the Rockets won't prioritize young players. This core is still young, and the Rockets are concerned with keeping a long-term title window open.

One could even argue that losing Durant in free agency wouldn't be the end of the world. The Rockets traded Jalen Green, the rights to Khaman Maluach, and some second-round picks for him. Arguably, moving off Green's deal was a net positive no matter what the Rockets received.

Yet, we don't even need that rationalization. The Rockets surely acquired Durant because they wanted him on the roster for 2-3 more years. Don't look for the Slim Reaper to take his talents to South Beach any time soon:

No matter how tempting Miami might be.