P.J Tucker made a huge difference for the Miami Heat in 2021-22, helping them win the Eastern Conference. Now, it appears they will have stiff competition in order to retain him in NBA Free Agency.

On Monday, Tucker declined his $7.4 million player option and decided to hit the open market. Per Chris Haynes, numerous teams are expected to take a run at the defensive lynchpin:

The Sixers have been mentioned as one early destination but it's important to note that the Heat is still very interested in running it back. He was loved by his teammates last season and proved to be a huge piece on both ends of the floor after winning a title with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021.

In 71 games for Miami, the veteran posted averages of 7.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 41% from three-point land. He was essentially a regular in the first unit, starting 70 contests.

His leadership and experience are absolutely crucial and that's one of the biggest reasons that countless organizations are already eyeing his services ahead of NBA Free Agency on July 1st. The Heat will certainly need to put a respectable contract on the table in order to bring him back. Given how much P.J. Tucker enjoyed his time in South Beach though, there's certainly a good chance he's back in 2022-23. Only time will tell.