PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns waiving Haywood Highsmith may not capture national headlines, but it could be a meaningful move for a team that wants to build on last season’s foundation.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Phoenix Suns have waived Haywood Highsmith, league sources told @hoopshype. He was partially guaranteed $1 million of his $3 million salary for the 2026-27 season. The 3-and-D forward has averaged 5.4 points on 38% 3-point shooting and 3.1 rebounds in six NBA seasons.
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) August 12, 2026
Highsmith, who had $1 million guaranteed on his $3 million salary for the 2026-27 season, joined the club last February on a multiyear deal after dealing with a significant knee injury. In seven games during the regular season, the forward averaged 5.4 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.0 assists.
The move now gives Phoenix an open roster spot and, perhaps more importantly, another chance to reshape the bottom of its roster.
Mar 8, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Haywood Highsmith (19) drives by Charlotte Hornets guard Sion James (4) during the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Highsmith was never expected to be a major offensive contributor, but his skill set is exactly what clubs value: wings who can defend multiple positions, space the floor and play minutes alongside established stars.
The bigger question now is who Phoenix decides to bring in and how that player could fit into the team’s plans for the upcoming season.
Mar 10, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Haywood Highsmith (19) reacts after scoring a basket during the fourth quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
The front office has the flexibility to add another veteran, pursue a different type of wing or simply keep the spot open for a future opportunity. Highsmith’s departure itself won’t change the Suns’ ceiling, but what Phoenix decides to do with the open roster spot could.
Mar 10, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma (18) and Phoenix Suns forward Haywood Highsmith (19) reach for the ball during the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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