The Indiana Pacers have initiated trade talks involving Buddy Hield following the breakdown of contract extension negotiations, and several teams have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring him.

 

Hield is poised to enter the final year of his contract with an approximate salary of $19.3 million. Given his reputation as one of the league’s premier three-point shooters, it’s no surprise that numerous teams are already eyeing him.

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, who made an appearance on “The Rally,” one of the teams showing keen interest in acquiring Buddy Hield is the Philadelphia 76ers. This development could present an enticing opportunity for the Pacers to pursue a trade they had previously contemplated.

 

Earlier in the summer, there were reports suggesting the Pacers’ interest in trading for Tobias Harris. Harris, who is entering the last year of a staggering $180 million contract, has often been regarded as one of the most substantial overpayments in basketball.

However, as an expiring contract, Harris could be an ideal fit for the Pacers. His on-court synergy alongside Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner is highly favorable, and he would serve as an exceptional second or third option for the team’s future growth.

 

Setting aside his significant price tag, Harris is recognized as one of the premier role players in basketball. In the previous season, he averaged 14.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists while boasting a shooting percentage of 50.1% from the field and 38.9% from beyond the three-point line.

Philadelphia’s offseason has been overshadowed by speculation regarding the potential departure of James Harden or, at the very least, his desire to part ways with the 76ers organization.

 

Should Harden exit or hold out, Harris’s expiring contract could serve as a valuable asset for adding depth and resources to the team. The addition of Hield to pair with Tyrese Maxey in the backcourt would present a logical move.

In broad terms, the trade package could include Buddy Hield, Daniel Theis, TJ McConnell, and potentially a second-round draft pick in exchange for Tobias Harris.

Meanwhile, the Pacers would exchange three seasoned veterans for a player who better aligns with their current team structure. At the very least, this is a transaction that the Indiana Pacers should closely monitor as they explore potential suitors for Buddy Hield.