Nets eye Haywood Highsmith as a near-deadline target, leveraging his $5.6M expiring deal and proven 3-and-D value to lure contenders as Brooklyn rebuilds around youth and new talent like Michael Porter Jr. The wheels are already in motion with expected in-season trade chatter, and Highsmith’s versatility could either anchor a playoff push or fetch additional future assets for the Nets at the deadline.

Porter Jr. slots into Brooklyn’s shifting wing landscape, adding scoring and length while the team contends with minutes for younger players. With five first-round picks in play, Brooklyn’s offseason tweaks signal a long view, where Highsmith could be moved to clear minutes or consolidate assets as the season unfolds, keeping fantasy managers on their toes.