The Phoenix Suns have officially secured a multi-year agreement with forward Haywood Highsmith. This strategic move strengthens the team's roster, bringing in a player with a history of contributing effectively, particularly during his tenure with the Miami Heat. Highsmith's acquisition follows a period of injury and a brief, non-playing stint with the Brooklyn Nets, marking a new chapter in his professional basketball career.
Haywood Highsmith played a significant role for the Miami Heat over four seasons, from 2021 to 2025. During his time with the Heat, he was a consistent presence in their rotation, starting 80 games. His performance metrics included an average of 5.5 points and 3.2 rebounds across 20.3 minutes per contest. Notably, Highsmith demonstrated strong perimeter shooting, hitting 37.5% of his attempts from beyond the arc, making him a valuable asset for spacing the floor.
However, Highsmith's journey took a turn in August 2025 when he suffered a meniscus tear during a workout. This unfortunate injury led to his trade to the Brooklyn Nets shortly thereafter. Despite the trade, Highsmith did not get the opportunity to play in a single game for the Nets. His time with the Brooklyn franchise was cut short when he was waived at the trade deadline, leaving him as a free agent.
The signing by the Phoenix Suns represents a fresh start for Highsmith, offering him a new opportunity to showcase his skills and contribute to a competitive team. His past performance with the Heat, particularly his three-point accuracy, suggests he could become a valuable addition to the Suns' lineup, providing depth and shooting from the forward position as he returns to full health.
In summary, the Phoenix Suns have completed a multi-year agreement to bring Haywood Highsmith onto their squad. This acquisition underscores the team's commitment to bolstering its roster with experienced talent. Highsmith's previous contributions to the Miami Heat, characterized by consistent playing time and efficient shooting, suggest his potential impact on the Suns, as he looks to overcome recent injury setbacks and make a successful return to the court.