Haywood Highsmith Leads Miami Heat In Absence Of Jimmy Butler, Tyler Herro

In the Miami Heat’s loss to the Brooklyn Nets, forward Haywood Highsmith had the most efficient display without Jimmy Butler, Tyler Herro, and Caleb Martin.

In the first half, Highsmith scored 13 points on 100 percent shooting to give Miami a one-point lead entering the third quarter. Coach Erik Spoelstra benched him roughly halfway through the third quarter to view less-seen players. Center Bam Adebayo was also benched for the second half.

Highsmith finished the night with 15 points, three rebounds, and one assist on 75 percent shooting. Last season, Highsmith played nearly 18 minutes a game but averaged 4.4 points on 43.1 percent shooting. For him to have success in Miami, Highsmith needs to continue this level of efficiency.

The 26-year-old is competing for minutes with the likes of Caleb Martin, Nikola Jovic, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Cole Swider. The Heat are not lacking in forwards, but Highsmith’s defense separates him from the rest.

In the Heat’s second preseason game versus Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs, Highsmith was often matched up against the 7-foot-4 French center. Despite his 6-foot-7 frame, Highsmith had multiple impressive plays against the No. 1 pick in Wembanyama.

With one preseason game remaining, Highsmith looks to cement himself in the Heat’s rotation prior to their regular season opener Oct. 25.

Victor Wembanyama Shines In San Antonio Spurs' Preseason Win Against Miami Heat

Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer to Inside the Heat.

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