Chris Forsberg: Brad Stevens says it’s just general soreness for Gordon Hayward. Aron Baynes starts.
Gordon Hayward Rumors
All NBA Players
Position: F
Born: 03/23/90
Height: 6-8 / 2.03
Weight:207 lbs. / 93.9 kg.
Salary: $31,214,295
Born: 03/23/90
Height: 6-8 / 2.03
Weight:207 lbs. / 93.9 kg.
Salary: $31,214,295
Just getting on the court in a Celtics uniform at TD Garden for an entire game meant something. “That was a big step for me mentally, a big confidence boost just to finish that first game (and) be back on the court,” Hayward said. “That was a big hurdle.” Yes, it was nice Hayward made shots (4 for 12), scored points (10), grabbed rebounds (five), collected steals (four) and contributed to Boston’s 105-87 victory against the Sixers. “Definitely still a long ways to go,” he said. “I’m not where I want to be yet, but it was a great first step.”
Hayward wasn’t at his best, and he knows he won’t be right away. His progression will be monitored and dissected until he returns to an All-Star level, and the Celtics have the luxury of a deep and talented team. Hayward doesn’t have to get there tomorrow, next week or even next month. “Part of it is having patience and realizing it’s not all going to come at once,” Hayward said. “As long as I can do the things on the court that can help us get wins, I’ll be happy. “I’ve learned about patience this whole last year, and I’m trying to teach that to my daughters. So, maybe I can have a little bit, too.”
Mark Murphy: Hayward on the reception for his first game as a Celtic in the Garden: ““(The crowd was) great, tremendous, everything that I was expecting when I originally signed here. Had to wait a year for it, but they were amazing.”
Gordon Hayward: New season. New beginnings. I’m excited to announce my partnership with Anta! GH signature shoe dropping next fall 🔥 Big things to come… pic.twitter.com/zTiHh5nbWP
