Since the Utah Jazz made swingman Gordon Hayward the ninth-overall pick of the first round of the 2010 NBA Draft, Hayward has developed into a very good player.
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Hayward has improved his numbers in each of his four seasons, culminating in the best season of his career so far. Now, he is officially a restricted free agent, Hayward will be looking to cash in.
Hayward already has a couple of suitors, including the Boston Celtics. The Celtics are probably the most interesting suitor for Hayward, not because he is a good fit (he would be) or because of the Celtics’ rich history and desire to quickly turn things around, but because they are coached by Brad Stevens. Stevens was Hayward’s college coach with the Butler Bulldogs. The Phoenix Suns, who clearly want to make a big splash, are also expected to show interest.
Now, you can throw another team into the mix for Hayward. According to Marc Stein of ESPN.com, the Cleveland Cavaliers are mulling offering a big deal to Hayward as well.
If the Cavaliers can pry Hayward away, David Pick of Eurobasket.com, ONE.co.il and Sportando.com believes
Hayward averaged 16.2 points, 5.2 assists, 5.1 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game for the Jazz last season. He shot 41.3% from the field and 30.4% from beyond the arc.