Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has shed light on Buddy Hield’s role for the upcoming 2024-25 season. Despite early speculation that Hield would step into a starting position following Klay Thompson’s departure to the Dallas Mavericks, Kerr made it clear that Hield will not be a part of the starting lineup.
In a recent update, Kerr revealed that Hield will be used primarily as the team’s sixth man. “Though there was muted speculation that Buddy Hield was a candidate to start for the Warriors, coach Steve Kerr makes it apparent Buddy will be 6th man,” tweeted NBA insider Monte Poole. Kerr emphasized that Hield’s presence on the court would be most valuable when Stephen Curry is off the floor.
This decision comes as De’Anthony Melton is expected to take the starting shooting guard spot. Hield, known for his shooting prowess, is seen as a key contributor off the bench, offering scoring firepower and spacing when Curry is resting.
Hield, who joined the Warriors this offseason, was initially seen by some as a potential replacement for Thompson due to his ability to stretch the floor. However, Kerr’s decision to utilize him in a bench role underscores the Warriors’ strategy to maintain scoring depth throughout the rotation.
Last season, Hield split time between the Indiana Pacers and Philadelphia 76ers, where he averaged 12.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. His shooting efficiency remained strong, hitting 43.6% from the field and 38.6% from beyond the arc.
Through four preseason games with Golden State, Hield has averaged 12.2 points per game. His consistent three-point shooting adds another weapon to the Warriors’ high-paced offense, and Kerr has praised his ability to adapt to the team’s system quickly.
