Buddy Hield DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield (illness) is available for Monday's matchup with the Orlando Magic. The veteran isn't feeling well. Fortunately, the illness won't force him to miss his first game of the 2024-25 campaign. Hield is hard to trust from a fantasy standpoint. But he had 13 points while shooting 3-for-5 from deep in Friday's loss to the Phoenix Suns, so fantasy managers hope he'll keep it going on Monday night. However, Hield could have a tough time getting that done versus an Orlando squad that has allowed 105.4 points per game this season, the second-best average in the NBA.

According to Evan Sidery of Forbes Sports, impending free agent guard/forward Buddy Hield is expected to draw "strong interest" from teams this offseason, with the Bucks, Magic, Suns, and Timberwolves the favorites to acquire his talents. After inking a four-year, $94 million contract with the Kings in 2020-21, Hield was dealt to Indiana before eventually ending up in Philadelphia for the 2023-24 campaign. While Hield had some solid performances, he struggled overall by averaging 12.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists while shooting 38.9% from deep. Fortunately, the 2016 No. 6 overall pick could turn things around with a new club, meaning he has a good chance to bounce back for fantasy managers in 2024-25.

According to Philadelphia 76ers head coach Nick Nurse, guard Buddy Hield will start on Friday night against the Atlanta Hawks. The 31-year-old was traded ahead of the deadline on Thursday after spending time in Indiana over the last few seasons. He's been a sporadic fantasy producer this season, currently averaging 12.0 points, the second-lowest mark of his career. However, Hield should get routine playing time in Philly, and his start on Friday night is already a good sign regarding his fantasy potential. With Tyrese Maxey (illness) out of the lineup, Hield is a must-start in all fantasy leagues. He's also worth considering for DFS lineups.