Buddy Hield's Defense

[-G-]

I'm in an argument about how good Buddy is, and the knock on him is always his defense. Is he really a bad defender?

[kb02]

I'm in an argument about how good Buddy is, and the knock on him is always his defense. Is he really a bad defender?

Short answer: yes.

Longer answer, Buddy tries, but doesn't have plus length nor plus quickness to be a league average defender at the two spot. Also doesn't have the spatial awareness (i.e, hoops IQ) to be a good team defender (thus far). So I wouldn't die on the hill you're trying to die in.

He is a better rebounder than most would give him credit for. So that might be something you can justify in addition to his one elite tool, which is his shooting.

[codydaze]

I'm in an argument about how good Buddy is, and the knock on him is always his defense. Is he really a bad defender?

He gets some sneaky steals on inbound passes after made baskets which inflate his steal numbers a bit, but generally Hield is not a good defender. Not good in man defense situations, guarding the pick and roll or in off the ball defense. He gives effort but just doesn't have the ability.

[-G-]

Damn, this makes me sad. Appreciate the replies!

[BoogieTime]

With his motor/work ethic, I’m still hopeful his technique will improve with time.