Free agency rumors are starting to pick up again, with the latest report coming from Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer reporting that Miami Heat free agent forward Haywood Highsmith is being targeted by the Sixers.
“The Sixers are interested in a trade for Brooklyn Nets power forward Dorian Finney-Smith. They are also in talks with Miami Heat free agent and former Sixers player Haywood Highsmith as a free-agent option. Houston Rockets free agent Reggie Bullock could be another option, but he might be at minimum salary.”
Pompey first confirmed the 76ers' interest in Nets forward Dorian Finney-Smith (first reported by Mike Scott of HoopsHype). The 76ers' interest in Reggie Bullock was first reported by Kelly Iko of The Athletic, but Haywood Highsmith is a hot rookie.
OG Sixers (and Delaware Blue Coats) fans will remember Highsmith for his interesting journey to get to this point: A native of Balitmore, Maryland, Highsmith played four years of Division II basketball at Wheeling University before entering the NBA Draft, going undrafted and being selected by the Delaware Blue Coats.
Highsmith signed a two-way contract with the 66ers during the 2018-19 season but was subsequently waived by them. After a stint in the G League, he signed a number of 10-day contracts to join the Miami Heat roster, where he has been ever since.
Since his time with the 66ers, Highsmith has developed into a capable 3-and-D player and has been a regular rotation player for the Heat. Last season, Highsmith recorded career highs in games played, minutes started, field goal percentage, 3-point shooting percentage (39.6% on 2.9 attempts), assists, steals, blocks and points.
Highsmith's stats probably don't scream “sign him” to most fans, but his advanced analytics suggest he's a better player than his basic stats would suggest. For example:
D-LEBRON'S TOP 10 WINGSTOPPERS
1. Dean Wade
2. Arthur Thompson
3. Herbert Jones
4. Heywood Highsmith
5. Josh Hart
6. Jae'Shawn Tate
7. Keegan Murray
8. Jalen Johnson
9. Jimmy Butler
10. Jrue HolidayWing stopper explanation⬇️ pic.twitter.com/8ie9WIul17
— BBall Index (@The_BBall_Index) April 25, 2024
Highsmith would be best suited as a rotation player rather than a full-time starting four, but with the right contract he makes a lot of sense for what the Sixers need. Speaking of contracts, Pompey put forward some numbers.
“Highsmith has earned $4.2 million in career earnings over three seasons in the NBA, but could command $6 million to $8 million based on his improved play and impact as a role player. The 66ers are exploring other options, but the 27-year-old Baltimore native could be a backup option if the Sixers were to release Reed.”
That range would likely be in line with what similar players have fetched on the open market, with Highsmith potentially being priced out as the Heat prioritize re-signing Caleb Martin and looking to save salary elsewhere, according to multiple reports.
The 66ers need a defensive-minded forward to surround their big three of Tyrese Maxey, Paul George and Joel Embiid. Let's see if there's a way for the 66ers and Haywood Highsmith to team up again.
