Lakers, Kings have discussed Buddy Hield trade; Kyle Kuzma involved
It’s been well known the Los Angeles Lakers need stronger reinforcements to assist LeBron James and Anthony Davis on the offensive end, primarily regarding individual playmaking and shotmaking.
Los Angeles brought in Dennis Schroder to fulfill that role, but his disappearance in the playoffs has left a sour note regarding his future in L.A., especially since he is seeking a contract in the $100-120 million range in free agency this summer.
The Lakers have also been linked to several top-notch guards throughout the league, which could convey L.A.’s desire to move on if a deal with Schroder is unreasonable.
Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook, DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry have been some of the premier names reported to possibly be a Laker next season.
Now, it seems like Sacramento Kings guard Buddy Hield is also in the mix, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic:
The Lakers and Sacramento Kings have discussed a deal centered on guard Buddy Hield, sources tell The Athletic. 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.
This deal is certainly plausible from a salary perspective. Hield is slated to make $22 million this season, while Kyle Kuzma has a $13 million extension kicking in.
The Lakers would need to include more salary to execute the deal, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope or Montrezl Harrell, if he opts in, could be included. Talen Horton-Tucker could be a name to watch given his potential, but he’s a restricted free agent and would need to be signed first.
Los Angeles also has the No. 22 overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft it could include as a sweetener if the Kings require it for Hield’s services because Hield is one of the best shooters in the league.
This year, Hield shot 39.1 percent from deep on 10.2 attempts, one of the highest volume shooters out there. He fits exactly what the Lakers need from a shooting standpoint, though his creation skills for others aren’t at the level of the other stars L.A. has been tied to.
Loading...
