Buddy Hield’s Role Shrinks as Warriors Face Crucial Midseason Decisions
At the midpoint of the season, the Golden State Warriors find themselves in a familiar but uncomfortable position: fighting for playoff position in a crowded Western Conference. But one thing that’s changed? Buddy Hield’s role - or lack thereof - in Steve Kerr’s rotation.
Hield, a known sharpshooter throughout his career, has seen his minutes dwindle to a career-low 16.7 per game. Over the last stretch, he’s been relegated to garbage time in two of the last three contests and registered three straight DNPs before that. For a team looking to squeeze every ounce of value out of its roster in a tight playoff race, Hield’s limited contributions have become a glaring issue.
The numbers paint a clear picture. Hield is shooting just 32.4% from beyond the arc - well below his career norm and the first time he’s dipped below 36.6% from deep.
His overall field goal percentage sits at 41.5%, another career low. And while Hield has always leaned heavily on the three-point shot, this year, it’s become even more pronounced - 66% of his field goal attempts are coming from long range.
When those aren’t falling, it’s tough to justify his minutes, especially given his long-standing defensive struggles.
The advanced metrics don’t do him any favors either. A 0.0 value over replacement player (VORP) suggests he’s not moving the needle, and the team’s net rating with Hield on the floor is a concerning -9.1.
Even more telling: the Warriors are 16.5 points per 100 possessions better with him on the bench. That kind of swing is hard to overlook.
Hield has always been known as a locker room favorite - a positive presence and a veteran voice. But in a results-driven league, good vibes only go so far.
Golden State is chasing more than just a playoff berth - they’re still aiming for contention. And if they want to make a real push, they’ll need more consistency and impact from every rotation spot.
It’s not just the regular season where Hield’s impact has been muted. In last year’s playoff run, he scored eight or fewer points in five of the team’s 12 games. When the spotlight gets brighter, his offensive inconsistencies and defensive liabilities become even harder to hide.
At 33, Hield has already been traded four times in his career and has bounced around from contender to contender. This stretch in Golden State feels different - not just a cold shooting slump, but a potential turning point in his career. The Warriors are clearly evaluating their options, and Hield’s diminishing role suggests the front office may be ready to pivot.
With the trade deadline looming on February 5, Golden State is expected to be active. Jonathan Kuminga’s name has surfaced in trade discussions, and the front office appears open to reshaping the roster.
Hield, under contract through 2028 but with just $3 million guaranteed for next season, could be part of that equation. His contract structure offers flexibility to a rebuilding team - either as a low-risk roster addition at $9.6 million or as a way to reach the salary floor with minimal commitment.
The Warriors may not get a significant return for Hield, but at this stage, clearing his spot and adding a player who can contribute on both ends might be the more important move. For a team with championship aspirations - or at least hopes of a deep playoff run - every roster decision matters.
Hield’s time in Golden State isn’t officially over, but the writing is on the wall. The shots aren’t falling, the minutes are vanishing, and the impact just isn’t there.
Sometimes, the NBA moves fast. And right now, the Warriors look like they’re ready to move on.