"Makes absolutely no sense", "I’m with that": Fans split on Steve Kerr’s choice to make $21M guard "6th Man" despite 59.1% 3-point shooting

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr hinted that veteran guard Buddy Hield would serve as the team's traditional "6th man" in the 2024-25 season. Hield, brought in to replace Klay Thompson, has been outstanding in his four preseason games with his phenomenal sharpshooting.

Despite Hield's impressive performance in the preseason, shooting an outstanding 59.1% from beyond, Kerr said he plans to utilize him as an offensive weapon off the bench in the regular season, particularly when Steph Curry is resting.

Warriors fans have voiced strong reactions to Kerr's decision, especially given Buddy Hield's scorching shooting numbers.

"Makes absolutely no sense, where is Moody 100% time to find out what we have there or move on, also Podz more versatile then Melton too, frustrated already," a fan wrote.

"No he’s the starting SG stop playing," said another fan.

"Not mad at this but Hield could be deadly with Steph’s gravity. Wish we could see at least one lineup during the game with both of them," commented a fan.

Some fans supported Coach Kerr's decision to bring Buddy Hield off the bench, agreeing with the strategy to use him as a key reserve player.

"I’m with that. Melton provides ball handling, defense and shooting abilities that will allow Step to be free to play his game. I also see Melton as play maker," a fan said.

"Amazing. Finally a good coaching decision around lineups," wrote another fan.

"I think that makes sense. Likely starters Steph, Melton, Wiggs/JK, Dray and TJD/Loon, with BP, Hield, Anderson, JK/Moody and Loon/TJD as second unit. Payton will get time too," another fan opined.

Steve Kerr discusses what Buddy Hield brings to the Warriors

Following the Golden State Warriors' 111-93 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Sunday, coach Steve Kerr discussed his decision to bring Buddy Hield off the bench, at least for the start of the season. Kerr emphasized Hield's knack for making an immediate impact when entering the game as a reserve.

"He looks the part, doesn’t he? He comes off the bench, and you can feel his impact immediately. He’s not shy, and we need that," said Kerr.

In his four preseason games with the Warriors, Buddy Hield has been exceptional from beyond the arc. The veteran guard is averaging 12.3 points per game, shooting 60% from the field, including a remarkable 59.1% from 3-point range. Hield has connected on 13 of his 22 attempts from deep.