Haywood Highsmith
Haywood Highsmith being waived by the Nets may not have been on anyone’s bingo card. Earlier this season, they sounded as if they were anxiously awaiting his return following an offseason knee surgery. However, the initial recovery timeline for Highsmith was 8-10 weeks from Aug. 8. It’s now been just about six months.
For what it’s worth, Highsmith’s agent (Jerry Dianis) says that he’s been playing 5-on-5 and was set to make his season debut on Feb. 11, per HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. Dianis also reveals that multiple contenders have expressed interest in his client. That being said, Highsmith’s 3-and-D skillset is definitely still en vogue. With the 29-year-old playing a key role for a Miami Heat team that made it to the NBA Finals, it’s likely that there are playoff teams looking at him.
The Los Angeles Lakers may be at the front of Haywood’s queue. Based on previous reporting about their team needs, they’re in the market for a 3-and-D addition. Though they were able to secure a deadeye shooter from the Atlanta Hawks, trading Gabe Vincent for Luke Kennard, their defense got worse.
