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76ers alum Buddy Hield escapes ugly situation with lucky trade break

A major break for the ex-Sixer.
ByNicolas Kyle Pring
Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield (7) before the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Chase Center on Jan. 2, 2026.
Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield (7) before the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Chase Center on Jan. 2, 2026. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Former 76ers guard Buddy Hield has been on an uninspiring stretch of basketball since the past year that it seemed like his career was headed to an ugly ending. Fortunately for him, he just caught a major break this time around after getting traded to the Bulls not long after the Hawks shipped him to the Hornets just recently. Now, the veteran sharpshooter should be on deck to receive more playing time and restore his value.

ESPN's Shams Charania reported that the Hornets have traded Hield and cash considerations to the Bulls for young guard Rob Dillingham. Now, the veteran is once again on the move, but this is definitely the kind of deal he needed after facing an ugly situation with the Hawks this past season.

Former 76ers vet Buddy Hield catches major break with newest trade

Hield still has two more years left in his contract, which gives him ample time to showcase what he can still bring to the table. After a very unforgettable stint in Atlanta, his situation seemed poised to remain icky in Charlotte given the logjam he would have had to deal with. Chicago should present him with different circumstances that will allow him to actually be on the hardwood and not just a mere benchwarmer.

The Bulls appear to have pivoted to a youth movement, but they are operating like a win-now team. As such, Hield's ability to space the floor should do wonders for Chicago's breakneck pace. Last season, they ranked second in the league in pace, adopting a fast style of play that matches their dynamic and young players well.

The veteran had his worst year as a pro this past season as his three-point shooting, his best trait, took a significant dip. A fresh situation in Chicago should help him in that regard, especially since the Bulls should have a clearly defined role for him as a sharpshooter off the bench –– something he did not have with the Hawks.

Alongside newcomer Norman Powell, Hield will give the Bulls some established floor-spacing that should help the team have a more explosive offense. Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, and their young core are not exactly big on three-point shooting, which makes his arrival a very timely and needed one.

Things did not work out for the former 76ers vet in his previous stop, but now he has an actual opportunity he can seize. Hopefully, he can take full advantage of this new opening to extend his lifespan in the league.

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