NBA Free Agency 2017: 5 best small forwards available
By Noah Torr
2. Gordan Hayward
It’s no secret that Gordon Hayward is the most coveted small forward in this year’s free agent class. Considering he is the most likely to leave, teams are salivating at the opportunity to have him on their team. Said teams are the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, and, his home team, the Utah Jazz. All are ready to offer their max contract to him with a big smile and a fat paycheck.
Hayward has proven that he is an All-Star in the league already, and at a young age of 27, he is about to enter his prime.
The Celtics seem to be one superstar away from a big leap forward. The buzz has been about their pursuit of Hayward and a trade for Paul George that would put them much closer to Cleveland’s level.
Miami would instantly become a threat to Cleveland with Hayward on the roster. They have a deep bench and could be preparing to run back the same core, plus Hayward. Last year, the Heat went on an insane run at the end of the season that almost landed them the final playoff spot. Add Hayward to the lineup and that’s a recipe for success.
Utah can offer Hayward exactly what they have and nothing new. They would essentially run back the same crew with more experience. If Hayward chooses to stick with them, it will be interesting to see if they can make it past the second round of the playoffs.