Could Buddy Hield Find His Way Back to the Warriors? The Door Isn’t Shut
Buddy Hield’s time with the Golden State Warriors may have been short-lived, but it certainly left an impression - on fans, teammates, and apparently, Hield himself. After being dealt to the Atlanta Hawks in a trade that brought Kristaps Porzingis to the Bay, Hield took to social media with a playful jab at Jimmy Butler: “Why you trade me 😭.” It was lighthearted, sure, but it also revealed something deeper - Hield didn’t want to leave.
And here’s the twist: he might not be gone for long.
The Contract Clause That Could Bring Hield Back
When Hield signed with Golden State during the 2024 offseason, it was part of a larger sign-and-trade that sent Klay Thompson to Dallas. The deal was for four years and $37.8 million, but only the first two years were fully guaranteed.
That’s where things get interesting. The upcoming season carries a $9.7 million price tag - but only $3 million of that is guaranteed.
That gives the Hawks a decision to make. They can keep Hield and his full salary as a trade piece, or they can waive him, pay the partial guarantee, and let him hit free agency. Given that Hield has logged under five minutes total in his first three games with Atlanta, the writing might already be on the wall.
A Reunion in the Bay?
If Atlanta opts to cut ties, Golden State could be waiting with open arms. The Warriors valued Hield’s presence, even if his production wasn’t always consistent.
He shot a career-low 34.4% from deep this season and had started to fall out of Steve Kerr’s rotation, picking up some DNPs along the way. But Hield’s reputation in the locker room never wavered - he was known for his energy, professionalism, and relentless work ethic.
And let’s not forget Game 7 against the Rockets last postseason. That performance - gritty, clutch, and full of heart - is the kind of moment that sticks with a franchise. Even if the numbers dipped this year, that memory still holds weight.
Financial Fit and Roster Implications
At $9.7 million, Hield’s current contract might be a stretch for what he brings right now. But on a minimum deal?
That’s a different conversation. If the Hawks waive him and Hield clears waivers, he’ll likely draw interest from multiple teams looking for veteran shooting and experience off the bench.
Golden State could very well be one of them. Players like Seth Curry and Gary Payton II are on minimum contracts this season, and if the front office looks to tweak the margins of the roster, Hield could slide right back in - this time on a more team-friendly deal.
What Comes Next
For now, it’s a waiting game. The Hawks have the flexibility to hold onto Hield as a trade asset or let him walk.
But if they choose the latter, the Warriors will surely be paying attention. Hield’s time in Golden State may have ended abruptly, but the door isn’t closed.
Far from it.
In a league where fit, familiarity, and financial flexibility all matter, the pieces might just align for a second stint in the Bay.