Last week, Buddy Hield and the Indiana Pacers failed to strike a contract extension deal, setting the stage for potential trade negotiations. As the rumors swirl, it’s time to explore the best and worst NBA destinations for the sharpshooting guard. Let’s dive in!
Exploring Buddy Hield Trade Destinations
Good Fit: Boston Celtics
Why Boston Works:
The Boston Celtics seem like a perfect match for Buddy Hield. With the need to spread the floor and create offensive opportunities beyond Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, Hield’s three-point prowess could be a game-changer. Last season, the Celtics ranked sixth in team three-point shooting, but adding Hield could elevate them even further.
Hield’s ability to excel in catch and shoot threes, second only to Klay Thompson, could complement Brown and Tatum’s ball-dominant styles. Imagine Hield spotting up, ready to drain threes at any moment – a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Bad Fit: Dallas Mavericks
Why Dallas Might Not Work:
While the idea of Buddy Hield playing alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving sounds intriguing, the proposed trade involving Tim Hardaway Jr. doesn’t seem to align with the Pacers’ interests. Beyond that, Hield’s contract might pose a burden for the Mavericks in the long run.
Playing alongside Doncic and Irving might also present challenges. Hield is efficient off the dribble, but integrating him into a system with two other star players could be tricky. Despite this, it’s not the worst destination for Hield.
Best Fit: Milwaukee Bucks
Why Milwaukee is Ideal:
The Milwaukee Bucks emerge as a top choice for Buddy Hield, especially after Khris Middleton’s injury. Hield can step in and fill the scoring void effectively, and the Bucks won’t have to part ways with their core players.
A trade involving Grayson Allen and Pat Connaughton would suffice. While this would thin out their shooting guard position, it wouldn’t compromise their scoring. Hield averaged 17 points per game last season, equivalent to Allen and Connaughton combined.
Worst Fit: Washington Wizards
Why Washington Doesn’t Fit:
The Washington Wizards may be the least suitable destination for Hield. The team is in rebuilding mode, with their best players being Jordan Poole and Kyle Kuzma. In such a scenario, Hield’s motivation could wane, and he might leave after his contract expires.
While the Wizards might appreciate Hield’s scoring potential, it doesn’t seem plausible given their current state. The Pacers would likely show little interest in a trade with Washington, as there wouldn’t be much of value in return.
The Heat have interest in trading for Buddy Hield (@5ReasonsSports). pic.twitter.com/l7w9I89tfx
— Vice City Alerts (@ViceCityAlerts) September 27, 2023
The Buddy Hield trade saga is poised for an exciting resolution. The Celtics offer an excellent fit, the Mavericks have some hurdles to overcome, the Bucks provide an ideal opportunity, and the Wizards seem like a long shot. Stay tuned for updates as the Pacers make their next move, and we see where Hield lands in the NBA’s ever-evolving landscape.
Source: The Atheltic
