Smith waived by the Pistons on Monday…
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The Miami Heat have applied for a Disabled Player Exception for Josh McRoberts which could help them land free agent Josh Smith, according to league sources.
Sources told ESPN on Monday night that the Heat have launched the application in the hope of being granted the exception before Smith picks his next team.
Currently, Miami can only offer a $1.4m veteran minimum contract but a DPE after losing McRoberts would be valued at $2.65m.
However, while the Heat put themselves in a position to be able to offer Smith a deal, the Houston Rockets are understood to be confident that they have the advantage in the race for the former Pistons star.
Smith left Detroit on Monday with $26m left on his contract over the next two seasons after this one with coach Stan Van Gundy citing a need to allow the younger players at the franchise to improve and there has been troubles in term of chemistry on the court for the struggling Pistons so far this season.
The Dallas Mavericks are also understood to be in the hunt to land Smith, with point guard Rajon Rondo speaking about what his close friend could bring to the team if they signed him after the 105-102 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Monday night.
The Sacramento Kings and Los Angeles Clippers are also said to be in the running while the Memphis Grizzlies have also expressed interest according to Grantland, but Houston remains the favourite and there is likely to be a decision made in the coming days.
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