Six teams that should monitor Buddy Hield’s trade availability
By Dalton Sell
The Sacramento Kings have a predicament on their hands with Buddy Hield, one that could lead to a blockbuster trade this offseason.
For months now, Buddy Hield’s future with the Sacramento Kings has been shrouded in controversy. With hints front and center that the 27-year-old could soon be on his way out the door, Hield will have no shortage of suitors if he demands out of Sacramento.
The tension began in late January after Sacramento head coach Luke Walton demoted Hield to the bench in favor of Bogdan Bogdanovic to spark a postseason push. Walton’s decision ultimately worked as the Kings went on a 13-7 hot streak before the NBA suspended play in March due to the coronavirus pandemic. Although the team was thriving, Hield was not content with this new role as a reserve, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
"“If Hield remains displeased with his role, a source with knowledge of his thinking said he might request a trade. He believes he is a starter in the NBA, and there’s no guarantee he’ll get that job back, given how the team has played lately.”"
That quote came back in February, but Hield reiterated his stance in August after the team missed the postseason.
Asked Buddy Hield if he can be content with his role moving forward with the Kings. He did not say yes.
— Jason Anderson (@JandersonSacBee) August 13, 2020
With the Kings reportedly set to match any offer made towards impending restricted free-agent Bogdan Bogdanovic, Hield has seemingly lost the starting shooting guard job for good. While nothing is set in stone, all signs point towards a split this offseason between Hield and the Kings. This all comes just a year after Hield agreed to a four-year $96 million extension with the team, which will take effect to start the 2020-21 season, wherever he plays.
Hield averaged 19.2 points per game on 42.9 percent field goal shooting and 39.4 percent 3-point shooting in his turbulent 2019-20 campaign, a step back from last season. Still, those numbers will not scare away any teams potentially looking to trade for the sharpshooter. A career 41.1 percent 3-point shooter, Hield is one of the best long-ball threats in the league, and he could be the missing piece for several franchises.
With an uncertain future in Sacramento looming large, here are six teams that should monitor Buddy Hield’s trade availability.