Miami Heat: Haywood Highsmith can help fill P.J. Tucker-sized hole

Miami Heat: Haywood Highsmith can help fill P.J. Tucker-sized hole

Nonetheless, they’ve received some very steady play from Highsmith, as the returning Heat forward scored 17 points against his former team, all while adding seven rebounds, three steals, and three rejections.

Since last December, when the Miami Heat originally signed him to a 10-Day contract, it was understood that Highsmith would provide a floor spacing prowess. However, we’re seeing a brand new display of intangibility from the 25-year-old forward.

Not only is this a stronger, quicker, and more cerebral Haywood Highsmith—this is, indeed, a more determined Haywood Highsmith.

THROUGHOUT SUMMER LEAGUE PLAY, HIGHSMITH IS BOOSTING HIS CANDIDACY FOR MORE THAN JUST INCREASED PLAYING TIME.

This summer, Highsmith has expanded his role as a vocal leader. Often seen directing teammates to where they should be on the floor, he’s been precise with his ability to set screens on or away from the ball.

Highsmith has also shown a high level of intensity such as boxing out and relentlessly attacking the offensive glass. Defensively, he’s guarding multiple positions and even taking the initiative to guard marquee assignments.

Quite simply, the 25-year-old forward is proving himself to be an NBA player. And a very serviceable one, at that.