Golden State Warriors: 5 Players that Stephen Curry has influenced
By Tony Pesta
4. Buddy Hield
Since his days with the Oklahoma Sooners, Buddy Hield has been taking clear inspiration from Stephen Curry. Hield made a name for himself by being an elite 3-point shooter in college. He showcased his limitless range multiple times and was exceptional at making opponents pay from deep.
Hield’s game took a minute to translate to the NBA level. For his first two seasons, Hield averaged 12.0 points and 1.7 assists per game on 41.2 percent shooting from beyond the arc. He played just 24.1 minutes per game and was traded during his rookie season.
This season has been a break out year for Buddy. Now, Hield is putting up career highs for points (19.3), rebounds (5.0) and assists (2.5). He has knocked down 87 total 3-pointers this season, placing him seventh in the league for this category. He also shoots the fifth highest percentage from deep (42.9 percent) of any player that has made at least 50 3-pointers.
Hield’s game reflects much of Curry’s. Buddy is constantly looking to spread the defense and force them to guard him as soon as he crosses the half court line. Hield has turned into one of the best deep shooters in the league.