“League sources informed @hoopshype that Dru Smith and the Miami Heat have reached an agreement on a three-year, $7.9 million contract,” Scotto posted. In 14 games during the previous season, Smith averaged 6.2 points on 51% shooting, 53% from 3-point range, and 1.5 steals. The transaction was completed by agents Aaron Reilly and Reggie Berry.
The 27-year-old Smith played for the Heat the previous season and obviously performed enough to merit a bigger spot in the starting lineup for the next campaign. Off the bench, he will add a spark to the score. Erik Spoelstra is probably hoping that Smith will be the newest gem to arrive via the Heat’s talent develpment system
In addition, Smith might be given a larger-than-expected role while Terry Rozier continues to struggle off the court. The seasoned guard has also had trouble contributing to the Heat’s success and is not expected to be in the starting lineup for the upcoming campaign. Smith will definitely want to take advantage of that chance.
Dividends Are Paid by the Heat’s Haywood Highsmith Decision
Haywood Highsmith and a 2031 second-round selection were dealt to the Brooklyn Nets by the Heat on Friday, August 15. As part of the agreement, Miami reclaimed a 2026 second-round draft pick.
“Sources tell ESPN that the Miami Heat have traded Haywood Highsmith and a 2032 second-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for a protected 2026 second-round pick.” As the only team in the league with substantial cap space left, Brooklyn has continued to be active in trade talks and acquires Highsmith with an unprotected second-round pick. The Nets now have the most first and second round picks in the league after acquiring two more this offseason. To reduce its salary bill, Heat slashed Highsmith’s pay. Miami receives a 2026 second-round pick from the Nets that is protected 31–55.
Highsmith’s trade gave Miami the cap flexibility they needed to sign Smith without running the risk of turning into a team that pays luxury taxes. Considering Miami’s recent guard position issues
It makes sense to sign Smith to a multi-year contract.
It will be hoped that he can grow into a dependable backup who can fill in for starters when necessary.
The Highsmith Because of missing 8–10 weeks
The Heat announced on August 8 that Highsmith would be out for 8 to 10 weeks following surgery. That was probably before he started recovering from his injuries and getting back to his peak level of fitness.
The Heat’s wing depth will suffer a severe blow with Highsmith’s departure. However, Highsmith’s value as a bench forward was probably exceeded by the necessity to add additional body at the guard positions.
Smith may finally be eligible for a respectable position in Spoelstra’s rotation after demonstrating some promise and upside in recent years. Additionally, Miami may easily reroute him in a trade if things don’t work out because of his modest yearly salary. Overall, the Heat have had a successful season as they continue their stellar summer of preparations and hiring.
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