Phoenix Suns bring Haywood Highsmith back to the League

Although the Brooklyn Nets waived him earlier this month, and despite having not played a single minute this season, the 29-year-old forward secured a multi-year agreement. ESPN reports that while various organizations expressed interest, Highsmith selected Phoenix, currently sitting seventh in the West with a 32–23 record, as they battle for direct playoff qualification.

Highsmith’s release from Brooklyn followed a difficult summer involving complex right knee meniscus surgery and persistent recovery setbacks. Nevertheless, the Suns are banking on his previous form. Between 2021 and 2025, he established himself as a key rotation piece for the Miami Heat, averaging 5.1 points and 3.1 rebounds before financial constraints forced his exit. Assuming he finally fully regains his fitness, Highsmith expects to earn minutes behind the wing duo Dillon Brooks and Royce O’Neale, effectively adding necessary defensive depth to Phoenix’s roster.