Heat rival reportedly targeting Miami's biggest free agents
By Wes Goldberg
The Philadelphia 76ers have expressed interest in signing Caleb Martin and Haywood Highsmith, according to reports.
As per the Philadelphia Inquirer’s Keith Pompey, the 76ers are seeking forward depth as they continue to retool around Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and newly-signed Paul George.
“The Sixers have interest in trading for Brooklyn Nets power forward Dorian Finny-Smith. They’ve also been in discussions with Miami Heat free agent and former Sixer Haywood Highsmith as a free-agent option. Houston Rockets free agent Reggie Bullock could be another option, but maybe for a minimum salary.”
Pompey’s report was confirmed by the Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson, who added the 76ers have also “poked around” on Martin, who declined his player option to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
76ers have poked around on Highsmith (as @PompeyOnSixers) reported and Caleb Martin.... Martin still on Heat's radar, but math doesn't work unless Heat sheds salary. Heat could circle back to Highsmith potentially. Heat with interesting decision on its $7 M or so under second…
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) July 3, 2024
The Heat have not give up on bringing back one of Martin or Highsmith, although carving out enough space below the second apron to offer either of them a market-value contract could be difficult.
Including Orlando Robinson, whose contract becomes fully guaranteed on July 15, the Heat have 12 players under contract and will need to sign two more to meet the league’s 14-player minimum.
It seems like the Heat are waiting on Martin and Highsmith to make their free-agent decisions before moving on to alternatives.
feed