According to Charania, Miami refused to include young bench players like Highsmith, small forward Jaime Jaquez Jr., or power forward Nikola Jovic as part of a possible Phoenix return haul for Durant. The Heat also would not include starting center Kel'el Ware, the No. 20 pick in this year's draft, or other significant draft equity.

ESPN’s Tim MacMahon gave an update on the state of Durant’s contract extension. According to him, while the Rockets intend to give him a new deal, he’s not the top priority right now. Both sides could wait for the perfect opportunity to discuss about the matter.