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Brooklyn Nets
Miami Heat
Aug 15, 2025 3:53 PM EDT
The Miami Heat have had quite a few players over the years who rose through the ranks to become valued rotation players over the last several years. This includes Duncan Robinson, Caleb Martin, Gabe Vincent, and Haywood Highsmith.
Highsmith’s role with the Heat grew over time since they first brought him in 2021. Over the last four seasons, Highsmith went from averaging 8.6 minutes per game to 24.6. His efforts helped the Heat make a surprise run to the NBA Finals in 2023.
While the Heat haven’t come close to that same success since, Highsmith has developed into a high-energy wing capable of shooting from three. Over the last two seasons, he shot 39.6% and 38.2% from three.
However, the NBA has some harsh penalties for teams that spend money, and the Heat wanted to save some. Hence, Highsmith was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in what was essentially a salary dump. ESPN’s Shams Charania provided the full details.
“The Miami Heat have traded Haywood Highsmith and a 2032 second-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets for a protected 2026 second-round pick, sources tell ESPN,” Charania wrote.
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Fans Express Confusion Over Haywood Highsmith Trade
Though the Heat save money from this deal, fans didn’t exactly understand why they made this move.
“How’d they lose an asset in a Haywood trade bro,” one asked.
“I think waiting for the deadline they could have gotten more, perhaps that is my ignorance of the market. Hard to believe a player as good as him who can hit three and defend 3.5 positions couldnt get more,” another floated.
“protections on a second round pick? is riley (expletive) senile?!!!!!” another asked in anger.
“???? This is his value?” another questioned.
“PAT RILEY I HATE YOU BRO IS RUINING OUR BEAUTIFUL ORGANIZATION,” another exclaimed with four heartbreak emojis.
The Heat made this trade because they wanted to save money. ESPN’s Bobby Marks explained how much they save and their current cap situation after trading Highsmith.
“The Heat are now $4M below the luxury tax and $9.5M below the first apron hard cap,” Marks wrote.
This could signify that Miami is trying to add a star in free agency. They have a pretty successful history of luring star free agents like LeBron James and Jimmy Butler. Among the free agents are James and potential ones like Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Trae Young. If trading Highsmith leads to signing one of them, Miami made well.
About the Author
Matt John
Trending News Writer, Athlon Sports
Matt John is a contributing writer for the Athlon Sports trending and breaking news team.