Buddy Hield's Stats, Metrics, Game Logs, Projections & Rankings

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.

Philadelphia 76ers point guard Cameron Payne will join the starting unit for Sunday's contest against the Knicks, replacing Buddy Hield. The veteran is getting his third start in four games after previously filling in for Kyle Lowry and Nicolas Batum. He starts on the backcourt alongside Lowry this time, with Hield set to lead the second unit. Together with his time in Milwaukee, Payne has made five starts across the season, amassing a respectable 14.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.2 steals in the role. Hield began the campaign as a bench piece in Indiana, so the role isn't anything new for him, and he should still get plenty of action off the pine.

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.