Haywood Highsmith
#19SF · Phoenix Suns
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsC-
| Year | GP | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | FG% | 3PT% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | 224 | 5.4 | 3.1 | 1.1 | 0.7 | 0.4 | 45.0% | 37.9% | 61.7% |
| 2025-26 | 6 | 5.5 | 2.2 | 1.2 | 0.7 | 0.0 | 50.0% | 61.5% | 83.3% |
| 2024-25 | 4 | 7.3 | 3.3 | 1.0 | 0.8 | 0.5 | 57.9% | 46.7% | 0.0% |
| 2023-24 | 5 | 4.8 | 2.8 | 1.6 | 0.2 | 0.2 | 35.7% | 18.8% | 100.0% |
Current Contract
Length
2 years
Total Value
$3.8M
AAV
$1.9M/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
Haywood Highsmith's contract with the Phoenix Suns grades out as a fair market value contract, earning a C+ CVI grade. At $1.9M per year over 2 years, this is a minimum-level contract. Haywood's deal falls in the minimum-level tier for NBA Small Forwards. At 29, Haywood still has productive years ahead, though the contract extends into the decline phase. This deal represents roughly fair market value — neither a steal nor an overpay. The deal will need consistent performance to grade out as a positive move long-term.
Performance Analysis
Haywood Highsmith earns a C- Performance grade, reflecting average production for a Small Forward. Across 224 career games, Haywood has averaged 5.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. Haywood's strongest metric is FG% at 4496.0, compared to the NBA Small Forward median of 46.0. The biggest area for improvement is APG at 1.1, below the Small Forward median of 4.0. Among 118 NBA Small Forwards graded this season, Haywood ranks 86th in overall performance. Haywood will need to elevate key areas of the game to justify a larger role with the Phoenix Suns.
Current Sentiment
Highsmith generates cautiously optimistic buzz as a gritty role player, not a star prospect. His recent return to full health after Germany stint is viewed positively by beat writers. The $1.9M contract appears fair for a reliable depth forward with solid defensive versatility. His narrative centers on proving durability and consistent playing time after injury-plagued career. Fans remain moderately hopeful he'll provide consistent energy, though limited offensive upside tempers expectations.
Transaction History
No transactions found for this player.