Six teams that should monitor Buddy Hield’s trade availability
By Dalton Sell
Detroit Pistons
Stuck somewhere between a semi-rebuild and trying to make the playoffs, the Detroit Pistons’ identity is a mixed bag. If newly appointed general manager Troy Weaver is true to his word about wanting to compete in the Eastern Conference next season, he should check in on Buddy Hield’s availability.
Detroit has the pieces to compete next season with Derrick Rose, Blake Griffin, and likely a newly extended Christian Wood. Health ultimately derailed the Pistons this season. If back to full strength, they could potentially surprise some people next season. Adding a player of Hield’s caliber to that roster could undoubtedly improve their chances of contending in the Eastern Conference from the jump heading into next year.
One of Detroit’s most apparent weaknesses is their scoring, as they ranked 25th in the league this season, coming in at 107.2 points per game. In today’s NBA, those numbers are not going to get it done, and the Pistons could use a scorer of Hield’s nature. His proficient 3-point shooting could work wonders alongside Rose and Griffin, unquestionably creating more opportunities to bump up that low scoring average.
While Hield’s presence alone might not move the needle for Detroit from playoff hopeful to championship contender, it is a step in the right direction. The Pistons seem firm on pushing for the playoffs next season, and Buddy Hield could enhance their chances of doing so.