Norman Powell trade had greater impact than Heat fans thought
Briefly

The Miami Heat executed a trade, sending Haywood Highsmith and a 2032 second-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets for a 2026 second-round pick. This decision was influenced by the recent acquisition of Norman Powell, whose significant cap hit necessitated financial adjustments. Highsmith's role as a solid defender and increasing minutes contributed to his impact on the squad. Miami's roster demands required a focus on salary cap management, especially with Powell's $20 million contract impacting their financial strategy for the 2025-26 season.
The Miami Heat traded Haywood Highsmith and a second-round pick in 2032 to the Brooklyn Nets for a 2026 second-round pick, indicating a salary dump.
Norman Powell's acquisition from the Clippers necessitated Highsmith's departure as the Heat managed their salary cap, approaching $200 million for 2025-26.
Highsmith averaged a career-high 24.6 minutes and 6.5 points per game, becoming a capable defender, yet his $5.6 million salary was too much for Miami's cap space.
With Powell's $20 million cap hit, Miami needed to save money, highlighting the challenges of managing multiple player contracts in a financially tight situation.
Read at All U Can Heat
[
|
]