The Los Angeles Lakers were linked to a number of trade targets last summer before pulling the trigger on a Russell Westbrook blockbuster. One name that was heavily on their radar is Indiana Pacers sharpshooter Buddy Hield, who still played for the Sacramento Kings at the time.
Now, it appears the Lakers are showing interest in him again. Via Matt Moore of The Action Network:
As Indiana continues to take calls for Malcolm Brogdon and Myles Turner, the Lakers have circled back to a familiar target: Buddy Hield.
However, there is no guarantee the Pacers would actually engage in trade conversations with the Lakers about Hield. Yes, they're taking calls on Brogdon and Turner, but Hield could still be a part of their plans.
Nonetheless, he'd be a nice addition to LA. They desperately need more snipers after shooting just 34% from downtown last season, which ranked 22nd in the league. The former Oklahoma standout is specifically known for his ability to make it rain from deep, compiling a career three-point percentage of 39.8.
The Pacers did just draft Bennedict Mathurin and Chris Duarte is expected to take another step in Year Two. Perhaps with the right package from the Lakers, they'd be willing to part ways with Buddy Hield. We'll see. If Los Angeles was able to make this happen, it would certainly fill an immediate need for their offense.