Miami Heat's Haywood Highsmith Proving He Is More Than Just A Defender

Highsmith had 18 points in Tuesday's loss to the Chicago Bulls

 Miami Heat forward Haywood Highsmith earned a spot on the roster because of his solid defense. 

He's now earning a more important role in the rotation thanks to his offense. Highsmith is showing he is more than just a defender. 

He had 18 points, including four 3-points, in Tuesday's loss to the Chicago Bulls. 

"I've always had confidence in H from the beginning of the season," Heat guard Tyler Herro said. "He's somebody that can step up out there and be a lockdown defender and hit open 3s." 

Highsmith is making it hard for Heat coach Erik Spoelstra to keep him out of the rotation. He was only playing because of injuries but is averaging 20 minutes a game because of his productivity. 

"He's played really well for the past six weeks," Spoelstra said. "He's playing his role offensively ... He's really working diligently on his shooting." 

MORE HEAT-RELATED STORIES

How Miami Heat Twitter reacted to Tuesday's loss to Chicago. CLICK HERE

Takeaways from Tuesday's loss to the Chicago Bulls. CLICK HERE

Victor Oladipo makes first start of the season. CLICK HERE

For a look at some of the latest Heat apparel. CLICK HERE

If you wanna bet on any games at @PrizePicks or PrizePicks.com, use our link and code. They will match your first bet for up to $100. Here's the code: PR-R1YOFY6

Shandel Richardson covers the Miami Heat for Inside The Heat.

TWITTER: @ShandelRich

Follow all of our Miami Heat coverage on Facebook here

Subscribe to our YouTube channel here

For any Heat or NBA questions, please email shandelrich@gmail.com