Utah Jazz: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?

Apr 6, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Utah Jazz guard

(20) looks on against the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Jazz 130-102. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Gordon Hayward

The Jazz and Hayward had a chance to agree on a contract extension earlier in the season, like they did with Derrick Favors. If the Jazz and Hayward couldn’t come to an agreement before the October 31st deadline, then Hayward would become a restricted free agent. Since they didn’t get a deal done, that is exactly what Hayward will now be.

Hayward will leave the decision about other teams up to his agent, but he is free to sign anywhere he pleases. Once he signs an offer sheet from another team, the Jazz have three days to match that offer to bring him back to Utah.

Hayward was inconsistent for most the season, having good games in spurts. However, Hayward did finish the season averaging 16.2 points, 5.2 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game this season, making him the only Jazz player other than “Pistol” Pete Marovich to average those kind of numbers. He also was put into a category as one of four players in the whole NBA to average 16-5-5 over the course of the season. The other players being LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Michael Carter-Williams.

GM’s around the league have talked about how they love Hayward’s game. He has proven that he can be one of the best passing wings in the league. A lot of teams are going to be interested in Hayward’s services. The rumored teams that we have heard all season are the Boston Celtics and the Phoenix Suns. Both teams should have enough room to offer Hayward close to a max contract.

As much as other teams are wanting Hayward’s services, I believe Jazz management knows how valuable he is to the franchise and I believe they will make the right choice on Hayward’s future.

Prediction: Re-signs with Jazz