Buddy Hield is quite familiar with frustration amid the Kings’ disappointing season.
Sacramento fans showed theirs Wednesday, booing the Kings during their home loss to the Mavericks.
Buddy Hield, via James Ham of NBC Sports California:
“Everybody is frustrated, it’s not even them, we’re trying to figure it out too,” Buddy Hield said following the loss. “But it’s the home team and we get booed…we don’t agree with it, but they’re going to voice their opinion.
“I understand their frustration, but like I said, I’m going to keep shooting the ball,” Hield continued. “When I make a three they like me, when I don’t, they hate you. That’s how Sacramento fans are, man, so you’ve got to embrace it.”
Hield seemingly isn’t looking to pick a fight with fans. He made a point to empathize with their frustration.
But I don’t think he’s being fair, either.
Kings fans are far more loyal than swinging between love and hate depending whether or not a shot falls. They’re fed up after 13 – going on 14 – straight seasons missing the playoffs. This year has been particularly discouraging, as Sacramento has backtracked from fun and fast to sad and slow. Losing to Luka Doncic – a particular grievance – only adds to the irritation.
The Kings’ problems have spanned multiple owners, executives, coaches and players. So, booing this group isn’t totally fair, either. But this is who’s in front of the fans.
If this Sacramento team plays hard and together, fans will embrace it – and stick with it through thinner times.
