Buddy Hield
The drama between Buddy Hield and the Sacramento Kings started last season when Hield and head coach Luke Walton did not see eye-to-eye, leading to Hield being benched numerous times. It is no secret that there seems to be a rift between Kings management and Buddy Hield, and as much as they try to downplay it, Hield is a player who will most definitely be on a new team within the next year.
The 27-year old shooting guard has consistently been getting better and had a great season last year, where he played in 72 games, averaging 19.2 points, 4.6 rebounds and 39.4% from three-point range. His perimeter shooting is what makes him a valuable asset for any team and makes him a player that will draw a lot of value on the trade market.
Outside shooting is something the Lakers could desperately improve on, as they ranked 21st in the NBA in three-point percentage last season. Buddy Hield is not only a better overall offensive player than Kentavious Caldwell-Pope on the wing, but he is also a better long-term plan for the Lakers.
As stated before, the Lakers do not have much set-up for future success right now, as they are building their team year-by-year to contend for championships. This will likely be the case every single year until LeBron James decides to retire, but the Lakers need to have the idea of acquiring young talent in the back of their minds.
Buddy Hield will be turning 28-years old this season and has gotten better each year he has been in the NBA. Next to two of the best players in the NBA in LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Buddy Hield will not only be able to get the open shots he wants since those guys will be drawing all of the attention, but he can learn a lot from them.
It would perfect sense for Los Angeles to bring in an offensive player like Buddy Hield and give him a fresh start. Hield can not only contribute to the Lakers winning formula now, but can be a valuable asset moving forward for the Lakers.
