Buddy Hield Opens up on Having More On-Ball Freedom With 76ers

For most of his NBA career, Buddy Hield has been known to be one of the top high-volume three-point shooters in the NBA. That is one of the reasons why the Philadelphia 76ers traded for him at the deadline last week. However, Nick Nurse has given him some freedom offensively that he hasn't had in some time. 

Since making his debut against the Atlanta Hawks last week, Hield has put together multiple strong performances with the Sixers. The veteran guard had arguably his best performance is Monday's nail-biting win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. In 36 minutes of action, Hield posted a stat line of 24 points, four rebounds, and eight assists. Most impressively, he shot nearly 70% from the field and 62.5% from beyond the arc. 

After the win over Cleveland, Hield opened up on getting to be on the ball and create more with the Sixers. He's enjoyed it thus far as he attempts to revive a past version of himself. 

"In my time with this team, they trust me to make a play. I've been in a position where the team is like yo put the ball in your hands and make a play," Hield told reporters postgame. "Just trying to revive myself and get back to my regular way and it's fun." 

While it's been some time since he's had a role like this, Hield does have experience as an on-ball creator. During his time in college at Oklahoma, he was the focal point of the offense. Along with being a threat from beyond the arc, Hield got to put the ball on the floor and score on all three levels. 

With his ability to be on the ball, Hield and Tyrese Maxey have been able to pick apart defenses in a variety of ways. This should add a whole new dynamic to the offense once Hield has the time to get more acclimated with his new team.