The Brooklyn Nets have provided a medical update on forward Haywood Highsmith, who is continuing his recovery from right knee surgery. The team announced that Highsmith recently experienced swelling in his right knee during the course of his rehabilitation from an August meniscectomy.
Following a medical evaluation, the Nets determined that the 27-year-old will move to a modified rehab program to manage the swelling. He is scheduled to be re-evaluated in eight weeks, placing his next medical checkup around mid-December.
Highsmith joined Brooklyn on August 15 in a trade with the Miami Heat, where he established himself as a reliable 3-and-D forward. The injury occurred during an offseason workout, delaying his plans to make an early impact with his new team.
Before the setback, Highsmith had expressed optimism about returning in time for the regular season. At the time, he said he had begun jogging, light contact work, and spot shooting. The new development, however, will extend his recovery timeline and keep him sidelined for the early portion of the season.
Highsmith is coming off a strong 2024–25 campaign with Miami, where he appeared in 74 games and started 42. He averaged 6.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game while shooting 45.8% from the field and 38.2% from three-point range. His defensive versatility and improved perimeter accuracy were key in earning him a consistent rotation role.
Over his five-year NBA career with Philadelphia and Miami, Highsmith has played 218 regular-season games, averaging 5.4 points and 3.1 rebounds while shooting 37.4% from deep. He has also made 35 postseason appearances, including significant minutes during the Heat’s 2024 playoff run.
