Heat Shake Up Starting Lineup, Bench Highsmith in Loss to Portland

MIAMI, Fla. — Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra made a surprising lineup change Tuesday night, benching forward Haywood Highsmith in favor of a double-big frontcourt featuring a rookie. The move came in a 112-98 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, marking a significant shift in the team’s strategy.

Highsmith, who had started 32 of the previous 33 games he played, saw just four minutes of action. The 28-year-old forward, primarily a reserve during his four seasons with the Heat, has seen an expanded role this season despite inconsistent minutes. “Just control what I can control,” Highsmith told reporters after the game. “It’s a long season. I know there are going to be ups and downs. I’m used to it, for sure.”

Spoelstra emphasized that the decision was not a reflection of Highsmith’s performance. “I actually talked to him about it, that sometimes when things are fluid and they’re moving fast, sometimes things happen and it’s not at all an indictment or an indication of how you’re playing,” Spoelstra said. “He’s an example of that. He’s had really important minutes, and his role is important for us. He just has to stay with it. We all believe in him, we all know his importance. And as we figure things out, his minutes will likely be more consistent.”

The lineup change sparked debate among fans and analysts. Some questioned the decision to bench Highsmith, who has been a defensive asset for the Heat. Others criticized the team’s reliance on a double-big lineup, which struggled against Portland’s perimeter shooting. “When the opposing team is torching you, why have your defensive stopper, Highsmith, on the bench?” one fan commented online.

The loss dropped the Heat to 24-20 on the season, raising questions about the team’s direction as they approach the midpoint of the NBA schedule. Highsmith’s role moving forward remains uncertain, but Spoelstra reiterated his confidence in the veteran forward. “We’re still counting on him to contribute, even when he doesn’t start,” Spoelstra said.