After lots of waiting, we finally know what Gordon Hayward’s future hold with the Celtics — well, kind of.
The star forward reportedly opted to decline his player option with the team for the 2020-21 season, per multiple reports. The move makes him a free agent amid the historically short offseason, but leaves him with limited time to determine where his NBA future lies, as free agency opens Friday.
So, here’s the big question: What exactly does this move mean for the Celtics?
Well, the answer isn’t as cut and dry.
For all we know, Hayward could re-sign with the Celtics. One thing that’s unlikely, however, is Hayward returning on a long-term deal. It’ll take a special set of circumstances to bring the two sides together for another year or so, and Hayward likely has numerous motives to look elsewhere, anyhow.
For one, Hayward currently is living hundreds of miles away from his old stomping grounds in Indiana. The Pacers reportedly have shown interest in the 30-year-old, which one can assume would be an intriguing landing spot for him.
Cap space presents a problem for both teams in this situation though. Hayward leaving for nothing would only leave the Celtics with the mid-level exception to sign another player. The Pacers, meanwhile, likely don’t have the ability to sign Hayward outright. That means the most likely way Hayward ends up in Indiana is via a sign-and-trade with Boston.
Such a deal is mutually beneficial, as the Celtics would get a massive trade exception and Hayward would position himself to make the most money.
But losing Hayward, in a vacuum isn’t entirely horrible for Boston. While he’s been known to put up big numbers in key situations, Hayward’s consistency still left plenty to be desired. They could fill his role with someone younger with more promise, or a veteran with a proven ability to make key plays in the clutch.
What’s more, the 30-year-old has a lengthy history with injuries. Hayward missed the entire 2017-18 with a gruesome lower leg injury sustained on opening night, and has since fought off other various issues.
In the end, someone will want Hayward. The big question is what teams will be willing/able to offer him, especially after him tumultuous tenure with the C’s.
But where exactly will Hayward land next season? That’s for him to know and us to find out.
