Miami Heat are now the frontrunners to sign Joe Johnson

With earlier reports that the Miami Heat were high on the list of teams that could potentially sign Joe Johnson, sources are now pegging the Heat to have the best chance of landing the former seven-time All-Star.

Source: Miami Heat have emerged as the frontrunner to sign Joe Johnson. JJ feels he'd have a larger role & more meaningful minutes with Heat

— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) February 26, 2016

It is clear that Pat Riley and the Heat have assured Johnson that there is a huge need for him and plenty of minutes available and it appears to be working. Ethan Skolnick of the Miami Herald is also reporting that the Heat are in the lead.

Can confirm reports that Miami is in the lead for Joe Johnson. Was just given a very high percentage that he's coming

— Ethan J. Skolnick (@EthanJSkolnick) February 26, 2016

One caveat: the Heat has some financial gymnastics to do. But I'm told Miami is Johnson's preferred choice.

— Ethan J. Skolnick (@EthanJSkolnick) February 26, 2016

Johnson is set to clear waivers at 5 p.m. ET on Saturday.