Brooklyn Nets Await Haywood Highsmith’s Return as Rehab Progresses
The Brooklyn Nets are still waiting to see Haywood Highsmith suit up for the first time this season, but there’s finally some movement on that front. The veteran forward, who joined the team this offseason via trade from the Miami Heat, has been working his way back from offseason surgery on his right knee. While a setback in October delayed his return, the signs are now pointing in the right direction.
Highsmith was originally expected to be ready near the start of the season, but on Oct. 19, the Nets announced he had suffered a setback and would be reevaluated in eight weeks. That timeline brought us into mid-December, and while he’s not quite ready for game action, he’s back on the court - a positive sign for a team that could use his presence on both ends.
“He’s in a good place,” Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez said before Thursday’s game against the Miami Heat. “He shows up every day and does his job. He’s the ultimate pro - not just about taking care of his body, but getting his work in.”
That kind of consistency matters, especially for a team still trying to find its identity amid injuries and lineup shuffles. While Highsmith isn’t yet participating in full-contact or five-on-five drills, Fernandez noted that he’s working on the court with coaches and continuing to hit his rehab benchmarks.
“When he’s ready to take those next steps, we’ll let you guys know,” Fernandez said. “But he’s done a good job. The most important thing to me is his veteran leadership - how important he is to the rest of the group, especially the young guys.”
That leadership piece shouldn’t be overlooked. Highsmith, 29, may not be a household name, but he brings a steady, defensive-minded presence that can help stabilize a rotation.
Last season with Miami, he posted career highs across the board - 6.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game - while shooting an efficient 45.8% from the field and a strong 38.2% from three. He carved out a valuable role on a Heat squad that prided itself on toughness and discipline, and that’s the kind of edge Brooklyn could use more of.
The Nets acquired Highsmith along with a 2032 second-round pick in exchange for a 2026 second-rounder. It was a low-risk move, but one with upside - especially if Highsmith can return to form and contribute in the rotation.
Brooklyn hasn’t issued a formal medical update since October, but with Highsmith back on the court and progressing, it seems that update is coming soon. And with the grind of the season in full swing, the Nets will welcome all the depth they can get. Highsmith may not be the flashiest name, but he’s the kind of player who can make a difference - especially when he’s healthy, locked in, and doing the little things that don’t always show up in the box score.