Jordan Ott, Suns
Getty
Head coach Jordan Ott of the Phoenix Suns looks on while playing the Detroit Pistons.
The Phoenix Suns beat out multiple playoff contenders on the buyout market, agreeing to a multiyear contract with forward Haywood Highsmith.
ESPN insider Shams Charania reported that Highsmith reached an agreement with Phoenix after considering several postseason teams, citing Highsmith’s agent Jerry Dianis.
“Highsmith considered multiple playoff teams before reaching an agreement with the Suns on Saturday,” Charania wrote on X. “Known as a gritty, two-way player when healthy, he joins a Phoenix team that is 32–23 at the All-Star break — 1.5 games out of the 5th seed.”
Contract Structure Reflects Suns’ Roster Flexibility
Arizona Sports radio host John Gambadoro reported that the second year of Highsmith’s deal is only partially guaranteed, giving Phoenix roster flexibility beyond this season.
“Yes, Suns kind of player — they value what he can bring to the team,” Gambadoro wrote. “Next year is not fully guaranteed. Suns wanted him, and if he plays well they can have him for next year as well.”
The structure aligns with Phoenix’s approach to midseason roster additions as it balances playoff urgency with future optionality.
Highsmith Nearing Return After Meniscus Surgery
Highsmith has not appeared in a game this season after undergoing surgery in August to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee. He later experienced a setback during rehabilitation in October, delaying his return.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Highsmith was on track to make his season debut Feb. 11 after successfully completing his recovery process.
“Highsmith’s healthy, is playing 5-on-5 and was set to make his season debut February 11th following meniscus surgery,” Scotto reported, citing Dianis.
The 29-year-old forward was traded from the Miami Heat to Brooklyn shortly after his surgery but never appeared in a game for the Nets despite progressing through rehabilitation.
Defensive Versatility Earned Trust in Miami
Haywood Highsmith, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Lakers
GettyGiannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks is fouled by Haywood Highsmith, formerly of the Miami Heat.
Before the injury, Highsmith carved out a steady role with Miami as a dependable defensive presence. During the 2023–24 season, he appeared in 74 games, making 42 starts, while averaging 6.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 24.6 minutes per game.
He shot 38 percent from three-point range and earned a reputation for guarding multiple positions — from wings to small-ball bigs — while fitting seamlessly into Miami’s defensive schemes.
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra once described Highsmith as “a great defender, Swiss Army Knife guy, winning player,” praise that underscores why playoff teams continued to track his availability despite his injury history.
Highsmith Adds Depth to Suns’ Forward Rotation
Pending medical clearance, Highsmith’s addition provides Phoenix with another versatile defender capable of filling multiple frontcourt roles. His skill set aligns with the defensive identity the Suns have emphasized under head coach Jordan Ott.
Highsmith becomes the latest midseason addition for Phoenix following its trade for Amir Coffey and Cole Anthony in exchange for Nick Richards and Nigel Hayes-Davis at the deadline.
With Highsmith signed, the Suns now carry 15 players on standard contracts, including Anthony, along with all three two-way slots filled as they approach the stretch run.
Phoenix’s aggressive buyout pursuit reflects its belief that incremental defensive upgrades could prove decisive in a crowded Western Conference playoff race.