5 things we learned about new Warriors guard Buddy Hield
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Buddy Hield joined the Warriors this offseason with some big shoes to fill as guard. Photo: Getty Images
Warriors newcomer Buddy Hield has made his splash in the Bay.
State of play: Hield met with reporters ahead of his appearance at the Warriors Basketball Academy on Thursday at San Francisco State University.
- He spoke about the perception that he'll replace Klay Thompson, the new "Splash Buddies" nickname and what he's most looking forward to living in the Bay Area.
Context: Hield joined the Warriors from the Philadelphia 76ers this summer as part of a six-team trade that sent Thompson to the Dallas Mavericks.
- Hield, one of the NBA's best shooters, has made 40% of his 3-point attempts across his eight-season career. Last year, Hield shot 38.6% from the 3-point range.
- For reference, Thompson is a career 41.3% from the 3-point range and shot 38.7% from 3 last season.
Here are five things we learned about Hield:
Replacing Thompson
"There's no pressure," Hield confidently said. "I feel like I just come in and do my job."
- He added that Thompson is "special" and what he's done for the Warriors over the years has been tremendous.
- Hield acknowledged how it could sound like pressure, but "I think it's fun just being in that role and seeing I can get the same looks [shots] he got."
The "Splash Buddies" nickname
He said he doesn't "see nothing wrong with it," adding that he'll take it "day by day."
- Guard Stephen Curry and Thompson were dubbed the "Splash Brothers."
What he's looking forward to
The Bay Area's food and the passionate Warriors fan base.
- Karl the fog "spooked [him] out a little bit," but he said he's excited for the different scenery.
His role on the team
Hield can't think of a time when he hasn't been the best shooter on the team but recognizes that Curry is "the one."
- Hield said he's ready to learn from Curry and examine his shooting mechanics and workout routine.
Search for housing
He already knows how hard it is to find housing in the Bay.
- Hield said he planned to spend part of the day looking for a house, but recognized it's "not going to take one day to find a house," adding, "you know how it is, especially in the Bay."
Fun fact: He's here for the kids.
