Gordon Hayward might make Danny Ainge the star of a real-life family feud.
The Celtics’ rumored pursuit of the Jazz star could put the Boston president of basketball operations at odds with his son, Tanner, who is running for U.S. Congress in Utah.
Tanner Ainge told the Deseret News’ Dennis Romboy that he can’t stop Danny Ainge from recruiting Hayward, but he also admitted he doesn’t know whether Utah voters would punish him if the Celtics lured away the All-Star forward.
“Unfortunately, I’m not sure I have a lot of influence there,” Tanner Ainge said. “Ultimately, Gordon is going to make the decision. I hope he stays.”
Hayward can opt out of his contract next month and potentially leave the Jazz this summer as a free agent, and various reports have linked him to the Celtics. The presence of Brad Stevens, who coached Hayward at Butler University, leads many to believe the Celtics lead the race for the player’s services.
Tanner Ainge last month referenced Hayward when he announced his candidacy to represent Utah’s 3rd District. Apparently Jazz fans on Twitter like to mix their sports and local politics.
The speculation over Hayward’s fateful summer seems to have loomed over Ainge’s candidacy ever since. He is one of three competitors to be the Republican nominee in the special election. The primary election will be held Aug. 15, five weeks after Hayward officially can make his intentions known.
Thumbnail photo via Russ Isabella/USA TODAY Sports Images
