LeBron James, Paul George, Klay Thompson, Isaiah Hartenstein

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Haywood Highsmith He’s expected to be a sought-after free agent on the market given his 3-and-D skills as a lockdown perimeter defender with a 7-foot-1 wingspan who shot 40 percent from beyond the arc last season.

The Miami Heat have already spoken with their free agent forward Highsmith and his agent, Jerry Dianisabout the possibility of a return, according to the Miami HeraldHowever, Miami is expected to have tough competition for Highsmith’s services in the open market.

Teams with significant salary cap space, including the Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets, Utah Jazz, San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers, are expected to show interest in Highsmith once free agency begins, league sources told HoopsHype.

The Hornets will look to re-sign forward Miles of bridgesand the 76ers are prioritizing free agency recruiting Paul Georgewith each player then on hold on their board.

Several teams with mid-level exemptions without taxpayer dollars available, such as the Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings and possibly the Golden State Warriors depending on the future of Klay Thompson, Chris PaulAnd Andrew Wiggins They are also expected to express interest in pursuing Highsmith, league sources told HoopsHype.

Given the expected interest in Highsmith, his free agency value could be worth as much as the non-taxpayer mid-level exception, around $13 million. Previously, ESPN’s Bobby Marks projected Highsmith has an annual revenue of $8-10 million.

For more on Highsmith, check out his appearance on The HoopsHype Podcast, where he discussed his journey from D-II Player of the Year to NBA player, Heat Culture, Erik Spoelstrathe top players he’s guarding, his upcoming free agency and more click here.