Everything is coming up aces for former Utah Jazz star Gordon Hayward, who made his return to the court and is about to get that shoe money.
Former Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward had himself a pretty good week.
The 28-year-old, who missed all but six minutes of the 2017-18 season after suffering a fractured tibia and dislocated ankle in his left leg during his debut with the Boston Celtics, made his long-awaited return to the hardwood on Friday. And he did so without encountering any setbacks.
In 23 minutes of play against the Charlotte Hornets, Hayward scored 10 points, adding three rebounds, one assist and one block. He struggled to connect from distance in the game, missing four of his five 3-point attempts, but did manage to make a living at the free throw line.
Get used to seeing this 😏 https://t.co/YzS498TEEY
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) September 29, 2018
After the game, Celtics coach Brad Stevens was impressed by what Hayward and Kyrie Irving, who was also making a return from injury, were able to accomplish —
"“First time back, it’s pretty remarkable — the level that those two can play at. To be able to just pick up and go and do those things. I thought that they both looked good.”"
Hayward conceded that he didn’t play his best game, but was happy to be out on the floor nonetheless. Clearly, some kinks will need to be ironed out as he rounds back into form. But, all things considered, it was a promising return for the 2017 All-Star.
It was also just the second good thing to happen to the former Jazzman last week. According to ESPN’s Nick DePaula, Hayward has agreed to terms on a four-year footwear & apparel offer sheet with Anta.
Financials on the deal were not disclosed, but Hayward is likely about to collect a hefty sum. The Golden State Warriors’ Klay Thompson signed a 10-year deal said to be worth up to $80 million with Anta last summer.
The Chinese athletic wear giant reportedly plans to market his signature apparel in both in US and Asia, where they have over 9,000 retail outlets. Per DePaula, Hayward’s old shoe partner, Nike, has 10 business days to exercise a match clause.
Hayward and the Celtics are back in action on Sunday with a second bout against the Hornets.