The Nets have converted some of their cap space into future draft picks.
Sean Marks managed to acquire an unprotected second-round pick from the Heat in 2032 by taking on the expired contract of power forward Haywood Highsmith, along with clearing some salary cap space.
Highsmith had been a consistent player for Miami over the last two years but recently had surgery to address meniscus tears he suffered during offseason training.
This surgery was announced on August 8, and he’s expected to be sidelined for about 8 to 10 weeks.
Once he’s back on the court, Highsmith, who averaged 6.5 points last season and has a reliable three-point shot, could theoretically fit into the Nets’ plans.
However, the Brooklyn front office, which drafted five players in the first round this year, seems more focused on player development, making it challenging for a 28-year-old like Highsmith to find a long-term role.
More likely, he could become a trade chip before the deadline.
As noted by ESPN’s Bobby Marks, the Nets remain the only NBA team with significant cap space this offseason, keeping around $22 million available.
The lingering question for Brooklyn is whether they will extend Cam Thomas, who’s headed for unrestricted free agency next summer if no agreement is reached before the upcoming season.
This trade formally helps the Heat financially as they stay below the luxury tax line, which creates additional room under the salary cap.
After trading Jimmy Butler last season, Miami barely missed the playoffs and fell to the Cavaliers in the first round.
They have potential to build around Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro, but coach Erik Spoelstra is clearly in need of a superstar to push for postseason success.
As part of the trade, the Nets also provided the Heat with a 2026 second-round pick, which is of little value unless Brooklyn secures a top-five record next season.
