The Miami Heat have become a central figure in recent NBA trade rumors, primarily due to the ongoing saga surrounding Kevin Durant. As Durant and the Phoenix Suns explore trade options that benefit both parties, the Heat have emerged as a leading candidate to land the 15-time All-Star, per ESPN’s Shams Charania.
While the possibility of adding a generational talent like Durant dominates the headlines, Miami also faces key decisions in free agency. One such matter involves veteran guard Alec Burks, who is set to hit the market as an unrestricted free agent. According to Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald, Burks has made it clear that he hopes to remain in South Beach.
“The only thing I’m looking at is coming back here,” Burks said during a Jr. Heat Basketball Camp appearance.
“I just like being here. I like the city. The city shows me a lot of love and my family, I like the organization, everybody I work with.”
Chiang noted, “As the Miami Heat waits on a resolution to the Kevin Durant sweepstakes, veteran guard Alec Burks will soon be working toward finding a resolution to his uncertain NBA future.”
Though Burks’ desire to return is understandable, Miami’s front office, led by Pat Riley, is currently consumed with Durant’s availability. This means Burks may need to wait until that situation resolves before engaging in contract talks.
That said, Burks’ contributions shouldn’t be overlooked. In 49 games during the 2024–25 season, the 14-year NBA veteran shot a scorching 42.5% from deep on 4.2 attempts per game, ranking him among the league’s most efficient long-range threats.
If Durant ultimately teams up with Tyler Herro, Bam Adebayo, and head coach Erik Spoelstra in Miami, re-signing Burks on a reasonable deal could soon become a high priority for the Heat front office.
