NBA Rumors: 2 Teams "Circling" Buddy Hield

The Indiana Pacers' blockbuster trade on Tuesday to bring in Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield from the Sacramento Kings may have further implications this week. 

According to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, at least two Western Conference teams are trying to get their hands on Hield, who the Pacers appear to be "open" to flip before the deadline.

"I do think teams like Dallas and the Lakers are still circling Buddy Hield. They had conversations with the Kings on acquiring him before he was dealt." (via @JakeLFischer on @SportsGridRadio) pic.twitter.com/NPzvCXcBCM

— The Trade Deadline (@_TradeDeadline) February 9, 2022

"I do think teams like Dallas and the Lakers are still circling Buddy Hield. They had conversations with the Kings on acquiring him before he was dealt."

This wouldn't be the first time, of course, that the Lakers have tried to secure Hield. During the offseason, they were this close to swinging a big trade to land him, before switching gears at the last moment and spending all their trade assets on Russell Westbrook instead. We all know how that's working out right about now. 

The Mavericks were said to have offered Tim Hardaway Jr. and a draft pick in their recent talks with Indiana for Caris LeVert; perhaps a similar deal could be used to snag Hield. 

Hield, knowing he was almost dealt from the get-go, and continuing to be the subject of trade rumors, is having a bit of an 'off' season, averaging 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.9 assists, while shooting 36.8% from long range. All those numbers are down a fair bit from his recent seasons. Nevertheless, he's a floor spacer that both the Lakers and Mavs could certainly use. 

Photo Credit:  Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports