The Indiana Pacers’ Buddy Hield, who joined the team during the latter half of the 2021-22 season, might be on the move once again. Contract negotiations have hit a snag, prompting the Pacers to explore potential trade partners, as reported by The Athletic’s Shams Charania. Hield, a seasoned 30-year-old player, is expected to attract significant interest in his contract year.
After contract extension negotiations stalled out, Buddy Hield and the Indiana Pacers have started dialogue to work on finding a potential trade, league sources say.
Story at @TheAthletic: https://t.co/B7H26hxR26
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 20, 2023
Buddy Hield trade rumors: Pacers exploring new destinations for veteran wing, per report
During his time with the Pacers last season, Hield made appearances in 80 games and showcased his scoring prowess, averaging 16.8 points per contest. His shooting from beyond the arc was particularly impressive, as he boasted a remarkable 42.5% success rate. Hield has long been regarded as one of the NBA’s top 3-point shooters, finishing second in the league last season with 288 made triples. In fact, since the 2017-18 season, no player has made more 3-pointers than Hield, except for Klay Thompson.
Indiana reportedly presented Hield with an offer to retain him beyond the expiration of his four-year, $94 million deal after the 2023-24 season. However, it seems the offer failed to entice him enough to commit to staying with the team. Last season, both Hield and Miles Turner were highly sought-after trade targets, but Turner ultimately agreed to a two-year, $60 million extension in January.
The Los Angeles Lakers were among the most interested teams in acquiring Hield prior to last season. Now, other contending teams are likely to explore the possibility of acquiring his unique skill set, considering what it would take to secure his services.
BREAKING: Buddy Hield and the Indiana Pacers will begin to find a potential trade partner after both sides failed to come to an agreement on an extension
(Via Shams Charania) #NBA #Pacers #NBATwitter pic.twitter.com/9wJFPHsOrK
— Court Side Heat (@courtsideheat) September 20, 2023
As the Pacers delve into potential trade scenarios for Hield, the NBA landscape eagerly awaits the outcome. Hield’s ability to stretch the floor with his exceptional shooting and his experience as a seasoned veteran make him an attractive asset for teams aiming to bolster their roster. While his future destination remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Hield’s impending move will undoubtedly have a significant impact on both his new team and the Pacers.
In the coming weeks, trade discussions and negotiations will intensify, with teams vying for Hield’s services. The NBA community will be on the edge of their seats, waiting to see where the versatile wing will land and how his arrival will shape the dynamics of his new team. As the rumor mill continues to churn, the stage is set for yet another intriguing chapter in the ever-evolving NBA trade landscape.
