Boston Celtics: Temper expectations of Gordon Hayward

Once again people are hyping up Gordon Hayward but Boston Celtics need to temper expectations when it comes to the forward this season.

Last season wasn’t exactly great for Gordon Hayward and the Boston Celtics. For most of the season he was just trying to find his fit on the roster.

It also seemed that Hayward was still dealing with lingering effects from his awful opening night injury. He just wasn’t the same player.

That’s not to say that Hayward was extremely bad. He averaged 11.5 points and 4.5 rebounds a game, but that wasn’t what Celtics fans were expecting when he was acquired.

Now Hayward has put in a lot of work this offseason. He is looking like he might be as close to 100 percent as he will ever be. Hayward stayed in Boston and deserves major kudos for his dedication to the team.

We have heard about Hayward’s progress from himself and his teammates, but Celtics fans need to realize that he will never be the same player again.

There is no doubt that Hayward will have a large role on this year’s squad. He is now the veteran on the roster that will help Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum.

A successful season for Gordon Hayward has him averaging around 16 points and being a presence on the boards. I expect Hayward to defer more and look to get his teammates going.

Also as long as Hayward fits into the roster and isn’t forced into the rotation he will have a better season. Last season it just seemed like he didn’t belong.

There is no doubt that Gordon Hayward will have a much better season. If he has a worse one the Celtics would have a serious problem on their hands, but don’t expect Utah Jazz Gordon Hayward to show up anytime soon.