Former Pacers player is now relegated to a bench role
By Ryan Stano
The Indiana Pacers decided to trade Buddy Hield at the trade deadline. It was a long time coming after Hield let his displeasure with his reduced role known before the season started. He wanted to be traded because he didn't want to sign an extension at what the Pacers were offering and wanted Indiana to get something for him.
Hield's trade request was honored right at the deadline when the Pacers dealt him to the 76ers. Indiana essentially got Doug McDermott back in a three-team deal. While the return hasn't been great for them so far, Hield seemed happy to have a bigger role on a contending team.
Then Joel Embiid got hurt. Once that happened, things changed in Philly. He was put into the starting lineup and was expected to get some threes up for a team that needs shooting. He actually played really well in the first few games as a starter. Now, things have changed.
Former Pacers player Buddy Hield is back on the bench
For the last few games, Hield has been coming off the bench. In each of the last four games, he's come off the bench as the 76ers are trying to turn some things around. In those four games, he's averaged 12 points and has shot much better from both the field and from deep, coming in at 50% and 43% respectively.
It's strange that Hield is already back on the bench considering he wanted a starting role. After coming out of the gate firing with Philly, his shooting percentage started to plummet. Now they have him back on the bench where he was with the Pacers.
Frankly, I'd still take him back in Indy. His shooting is something the Pacers are missing, although his absence has allowed Ben Sheppard to get more minutes and flourish. Still, you would think a team that has struggled offensively for the last 10 games or so would want more shooting around Tyrese Maxey.
Next. Next story. 5 players who turned their backs on the Pacers. dark
As far as the Pacers are concerned, maybe this validates their decision to get rid of him. In order for that to happen, McDermott has to contribute something to this team. Hopefully, he'll be back from injury soon and that will happen.