The Suns have waived Haywood Highsmith and plan to keep Jamaree Bouyea, leaving one standard roster spot open to begin the season.
John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 reported the decision Saturday, confirming that Bouyea will remain as the team’s 14th man on a non-guaranteed contract.
Highsmith re-signed with the Suns in August after finishing last season with the team. His minimum-salary deal was also non-guaranteed.
The financial difference between keeping 14 and 15 players was considerable. Phoenix is above the luxury-tax line and subject to repeater penalties, meaning retaining Highsmith would have added approximately $16 million in combined salary and tax costs.
Highsmith, a six-year veteran, was limited to seven games last season following surgery for a torn meniscus in his right knee.
He played a much larger role for the Heat in 2024-25, appearing in 74 games and starting 42. He averaged 6.5 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.5 assists while shooting 38.2 percent from beyond the arc.
His defensive versatility and that shooting history could earn him another look elsewhere once he clears waivers.
The Suns still have other roster decisions to complete. Based on Gambadoro’s earlier reporting, Kennedy Chandler and Phillip Wheeler are likely to be waived, while Duop Reath could have his Exhibit 10 contract converted to a two-way deal.
That would require another opening, potentially putting current two-way forward CJ Huntley’s spot in jeopardy.
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