Warriors Trade News: Steve Kerr's massive lineup decision indicates $37.7M guard's stint is likely ending after 1.5 seasons 

NBA insider Brett Siegel believes that Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr’s lineup decision for Saturday’s game against the Phoenix Suns is a strong indication of the future of Buddy Hield.

The Philadelphia 76ers signed Hield to a four-year, $37.7 million contract in 2024, according to Spotrac. The team then traded Hield to the Warriors, where he has been since 2024-25. But if Kerr’s decision to leave him on the bench on Saturday is any indication, the guard might not be long for the Bay Area.

Hield saw 10 minutes of action in Thursday’s game against Phoenix, finishing with three points. Saturday’s rematch came down to the wire. Kerr got the win after using every player available to him except Hield, who spent his night on the bench.

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Hield’s production has declined since last season, with his scoring average going from 11.1 in 2024-25 to 7.9 in 2025-26. Golden State is expected to be ready ahead of the trade deadline as the team looks to improve its chances of contending in Curry’s final years.

Jonathan Kuminga is known to be one of the team’s biggest trade assets. In light of his decline, Hield might also join Kuminga.

Will Richard’s emergence and Buddy Hield’s reduced role under Steve Kerr

Buddy Hield was one of Steve Kerr’s most valuable bench pieces last season as he provided the team with invaluable 3-point shooting. Kerr would check Hield into the game whenever he needed to space the floor or get a decent scoring punch.

But Hield has lost a step since the 2024-25 season. Moreover, Will Richard has emerged as a valuable player. Richard is averaging 8.0 points and 2.7 rebounds this season, shooting 53.3% and 39.7% from 3-point range.

He is essentially doing what Hield did last season, but with more efficiency. Richard's stellar play earlier this season even saw Steve Kerr plug him into the starting lineup.

So, between his own struggles and the emergence of new talent, Hield will need a big effort to reclaim his place in Golden State. With the trade deadline a few months away, time is not in the guard’s favor.

The Warriors will return to the court on Monday to face the Orlando Magic.

Edited by Sameer Khan