It has been yet another injury-plagued 2021-22 NBA season for Gordon Hayward, who has been unable to remain on the floor during his time with the Charlotte Hornets.
Hayward played in 49 games this season. He returned to the lineup in early April but re-injured his foot. It is a shame that Hayward has seen this problem countless times because he has plenty left on the floor.
When healthy, Hayward averaged 15.9 points and shot 39.1% from three-point range. The sad truth is that he is not worth much out of the lineup and the Hornets could look to move the final two years of his contract.
This is beneficial with the likes of LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges emerging as stars. They will be up for contract extensions in the near future and the Hornets cannot have multiple large contracts.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: This Hornets-Pacers Trade Features Gordon Hayward To Indiana
Terry Rozier signed an extension in the offseason, which makes him a candidate to be moved as well. If Hayward is the option, Charlotte would not have to pay him $62 million that he is owed over the next two years.
The Hornets are looking to take the next step in the Eastern Conference and can do so with Ball and Bridges leading the way. For this to happen, there will have to be some cap created. Hayward fits the bill for a team looking to win now and build some more depth along the perimeter.
When looking at potential trade partners, these three teams come to mind immediately. Let’s take a closer look at some options for Gordon Hayward this offseason.
