It is now official that NBA player Buddy Hield is joining the Golden State Warriors after a sign-and-trade with the Philadelphia 76ers. Rumors have it that Buddy Hield had opportunities to join other teams, namely the Los Angeles Lakers and Detroit Pistons.
On July 4, Buddy Hield was one of the best free agents remaining on the market. He also had offers from the Los Angeles Lakers and Detroit Pistons, but it was the call from head coach Steve Kerr that influenced him to choose the Golden State Warriors.
The reporters, Shams Charania of The Athletic and the Stadium, Puleo, Slater, and Vorkunov reported that.
“Hield is heading to the Golden State Warriors as part of a sign-and-trade (with the Philadelphia 76ers)”
“Hield chose the Warriors because of the opportunity to win, per league sources. His suitors included the Detroit Pistons and Los Angeles Lakers,”
“Hield is currently in Valencia, Spain, starring for the Bahamian national team, which is two wins away from a shocking Olympics bid, and is coached by Warriors assistant Chris DeMarco, a helpful ally in the recruitment of Hield. It had been trending in this direction for a couple of days, but Hield didn’t make a final decision until after a late Wednesday night call with Steve Kerr and then a night to sleep on it.”
Hield could have joined the Lakers and teamed up with LeBron James, as he has an average of 12.1 points playing for the Pacers and 76ers. What is impressive is that 38% of this average is from the last three seasons. But Kerr managed to reach out to him and was able to convince him to join the Warriors.
Although this is yet to be announced, Hield will be a perfect player to fill a major void for Golden State next season after losing veteran sharpshooter Klay Thompson to the team.