Klay Thompson’s legacy with the Golden State Warriors is undeniable, highlighted by his four championship rings. However, his recent departure has ushered in a new era for the team, one that seems to be thriving thanks to the addition of Buddy Hield. Known for his prolific shooting, Hield has emerged as a critical component of the Warriors’ roster, perfectly complementing Stephen Curry.
Since entering the league in 2016, Hield has consistently ranked just behind Curry in three-pointers made, showcasing his sharpshooting prowess. In the Warriors’ season opener against the Portland Trail Blazers, Hield proved his worth, scoring 22 points on 5-of-7 shooting from beyond the arc in just 15 minutes off the bench.
After the game, Curry lauded Hield’s contributions, emphasizing the necessity of adding shooting depth following Thompson’s exit. “The guy just loves to play basketball. He loves to hoop, he loves to be in the gym,” Curry remarked, recognizing Hield’s impact on the team’s success. “Without Klay, you need shooting. We needed shooting anyway. Me and him go one and two, Klay right there, shooting threes for the last eight years, so we know what his skill set is. It’s been a very seamless transition so far.”
While Curry refrained from directly comparing Hield to Thompson, he acknowledged that Hield brings a fresh energy to the team—one that’s focused on performance rather than past injuries. Hield himself expressed excitement about joining the Warriors, reminiscing about his time at Oklahoma, where he enjoyed the freedom to shoot without restraint.
The Warriors’ offseason strategy centered on enhancing their shooting and depth, making Hield a vital addition to the roster. With Thompson’s absence, Hield’s ability to deliver consistently from the perimeter is poised to make a significant difference as the Warriors aim for another championship run.
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