BROOKLYN — The Brooklyn Nets waived one of their top scorers, Cam Thomas, and injured forward Haywood Highsmith, who has yet to make his debut for the franchise. According to Shams Charania, the move allows Thomas to find a new home.
Nets Waive Cam Thomas, Haywood Highsmith After Trade Deadline
Nets Cut Ties With Cam Thomas
The Nets failed to find a trade partner for Cam Thomas, so they opted to waive him. Thomas will will likely clear waivers and it will be interesting to see what kind of deal he secures on the open market. There is no denying his scoring ability, but his shot selection and limited development as a playmaker/team defender has hurt his development and trade value.
The 24-year-old has served as Brooklyn’s microwave scorer for years. This season was always going to be uncertain for him after he returned on a one-year qualifying offer last summer.
Highsmith Waived After Three-Team Deal
Brooklyn also finalized its three-team deal with Toronto and the LA Clippers. The Nets traded the draft rights to 29-year-old Serbian shooting guard Vanja Marinković to Los Angeles. In return, they received Ochai Agbaji, a 2032 second-round pick, and cash considerations.
As a result of the trade, the Nets waived Haywood Highsmith. The 29-year-old veteran has not played this season while recovering from offseason knee surgery.
Last season with Miami, Highsmith averaged seven points, three rebounds, and two assists while shooting 45.8 percent from the field and 38.2 percent from three. Brooklyn had to waive him because acquiring Agbaji pushed the team over the roster limit. Highsmith will enter free agency after signing a two-year, $10.8 million contract with Miami in 2024.
Agbaji is in the final year of his rookie deal and is making just under $6.4 million this season. He will enter restricted free agency this summer. Brooklyn currently holds the most cap space in the league, with nearly $9 million available. The organization has significant flexibility, which could lead to more trades that bring in draft capital.
The Nets now aim to develop their young players while stockpiling draft picks to support a long-term rebuild.
© Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
