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Noah Weitzel

Noah Weitzel

Lakers and Kings discussed Buddy Hield trade

The Los Angeles Lakers and Sacramento Kings have reportedly discussed a deal centered on Buddy Hield. Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that a potential trade would send Kyle Kuzma to Sacramento. 

“The Lakers and Sacramento Kings have discussed a deal centered around guard Buddy Hield, sources tell The Athletic,” Charania wrote. “Lakers forward Kyle Kuzma would be involved in a potential package, per sources. The Lakers have received interest from several teams regarding Kuzma, sources said.” Shams added the idea of a Lakers – Kings trade sending Kuzma out of L.A. has ‘gained some traction.’

Los Angeles has been directed on boosting their backcourt as the motive to move on from Dennis Schroder is transparent. Elite veteran guards Kyle Lowry, Russell Westbrook, and Chris Paul have been associated with L.A. in recent reports.

Buddy Hield, 28, averaged 16.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game for the Kings on shooting splits of 40.6% from the field and 39.1% from behind the arc. Hield can provide top-tier three-point shooting for the Lakers. Hield can also operate in cramped spaces from deep on an immediate release. The 6’4” guard is a clutch scorer and is automatic from the charity stripe. On the other side of the ball, Hield doesn’t back down on defense — providing hustle plays.

Los Angeles has been hoping to move on from Kyle Kuzma for a lengthy period. Kuzma is coming off a disappointing post-season averaging 6.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game while shooting an awful 29.2% from the field and 17.4% from three. Kuzma is prone to error and while he can suit into a stretch four, few parties are looking to acquire the 26-year-old.

It’s no secret that Sacramento will be aggressive in trade talks and any deal made before the draft with picks included is ideal.

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