Breaking News: Gordon Hayward opts out of his Boston Celtics contract. Hayward was set to make $34 million next year with the Celtics, but instead, he will test free agency. A source close to the star player tells Shams Charania of The Athletic.
Unfortunately, Celtics fans didn’t get to see the full potential of Gordon as he battled through injuries his entire tenure with the team. Hayward is, however, coming off his best season with the organization. He averaged 17.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists. What does this mean for the Celtics? The team can still do a sign-and-trade to whatever destination Hayward prefers with the hope of recouping assets. Another situation that could happen, but is not likely, Hayward could resign with the Celtics to get a better deal with the team. Reports link the New York Knicks to sign Hayward with all their newly found cap space.
The question looms, did the Celtics know Hayward would be opting out heading into the draft? From the way they drafted last night, it seems obvious. Boston selected the best shooters in the draft, statistically speaking, Aaron Nesmith. In the shortened seasons, Nesmith averaged 23 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists. Where Nesmith was most lethal was behind the arc, shooting 52% on the season. Another big pick up in the draft was Oregan guard Payton Pritchard. Pritchard reminds me a lot of Marcus Smart. High energy will push the ball up the court and makes players around him better. Payton averaged 20.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.5 assists his senior year on his way to Pac-12 Player Of The Year. It looks as though the Celtics will be looking for a big man this offseason to fill a gap of a rim-protector. Enes Kanter has opted into his contract, which will be a big plus coming off the bench and helping Robert Williams find his form as a true center.
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