The Miami Heat have a busy offseason ahead of them this summer. In addition to perhaps moving on from star Jimmy Butler, the Heat have a number of approaching free agents. Currently, the Heat may have up to ten free agents this summer. This includes Haywood Highsmith, who has been with the team for the past three seasons. Highsmith is poised to become an unrestricted free agent in the offseason. According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Highsmith “has a lot of interest from teams around the league.”
“I would say Haywood (Highsmith) has a lot of interest from teams around the league because of the prototype that he fits, which is a 3-and-D guy,” Michael Scotto of HoopsHype told Wes Goldberg and David Ramil of Locked On Heat on Friday. “(He) shot 40% from three, which is a high standard for teams throughout the league. In Miami, you’re known as ‘The Locksmith.’
“His wingspan of 7-foot-1 allows him to guard some of the greatest players in the NBA, including Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown (who they’ve played against a lot), and even Jalen Brunson of the Knicks. He’s constantly guarding the best perimeter player. And in a league where defense has not received as much attention, you need players like them to win.”
Highsmith had his greatest season ever in 2023-24. The forward featured in 66 games and started 26 of them. On the year, Highsmith averaged 6.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. Furthermore, he shot 46.5% from the field and 39.6% from behind the arc. All of these figures represent career highs for the four-year NBA veteran.
Miami Heat Free Agent Expected to Draw Interest This Summer
Haywood Highsmith Wants to Remain With the Miami Heat
Although many teams will be interested in Highsmith’s talents, he has made it known that he does not want to go. Recently, the 27-year-old stated that he would “love to stay in Miami” this summer.
“I would want to stay in Miami for sure. I feel like I’ve made a wonderful life out here. My daughter lives out here as well. If everything comes together, I’d want to stay in Miami, but we’ll see when the time comes. I will be the same person regardless of how much I am paid or what occurs. I’ll still be in the gym, focused on winning a title.”
Highsmith has grown into an excellent defender since joining Miami. Highsmith, who is 6’7″, is versatile and can play both forward positions for the Heat. His versatility and defensive ability have contributed significantly to the Heat’s scheme. Although he has largely been a backup during his career, Highsmith has played as a starter. If it is on the table, a reunion would make sense for both parties.
The Last Word on Haywood Highsmith
Highsmith has grown into an excellent defender since joining Miami. Highsmith, who is 6’7″, is versatile and can play both forward positions for the Heat. His versatility and defensive ability have contributed significantly to the Heat’s scheme. Although he has largely been a backup during his career, Highsmith has played as a starter. If it is on the table, a reunion would make sense for both parties.
