BOSTON, MA – The Boston Celtics announced today that they have signed All-Star
forward Gordon Hayward. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“Whether you’re talking about the team’s past, present, or future, the Boston
Celtics are truly special,” said Hayward. “I can’t wait to be part of the
winning culture of Boston, and to join my teammates and coach Stevens as we work
together to bring Celtics fans Banner 18.”
“I’m very happy to welcome Gordon and his family to the Celtics organization and
the city of Boston,” said Celtics governor and managing partner Wyc Grousbeck.
“He has improved his game every year in the NBA, to an All-Star level. We have
been patient during this rebuilding process, and hope to step forward and
compete at the highest level.”
A first-time NBA All-Star in 2016-17, Hayward (6-8, 226 lbs.) logged career
highs with 21.9 points (47.1% FG, 39.8% 3-PT, 84.4% FT) and 5.4 rebounds, while
also adding 3.5 assists, 1.00 steal and 34.5 minutes in 73 games (all starts)
with the Jazz last season. His 21.9 points per game scoring mark represents
Utah’s highest single season scorer since Karl Malone averaged 22.4 points in
2001-02. The Indianapolis, IN native was also one of 10 NBA players to produce
at least 20.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists while also shooting 47.0% or
better from the field last season.
Hayward’s All-Star season culminated with a postseason run in which he averaged
a team-best 24.1 points (44.1% FG, 41.2% 3-PT, 93.4% FT), 6.1 rebounds, 3.4
assists and 37.4 minutes in 11 playoff games for the Jazz. The versatile veteran
scored 20 or more points in eight of those 11 contests – including a postseason
career-high 40-point performance on April 21 vs. the LA Clippers – helping guide
Utah to its first Western Conference Semifinals appearance since 2009-10.
“This is a big day in Celtics history,” said Celtics president of basketball
operations Danny Ainge. “Adding Gordon as a current All-Star, in the prime of
his career, to an already good group of players is reason for excitement.”
Continued Ainge: “Gordon brings a great work ethic and character along with his
ability to shoot, pass, and create offense in the pick and roll. His
athleticism, size and versatility will allow him to fit in perfectly defensively
as well.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Gordon and his family to Boston,” said Celtics head
coach Brad Stevens. “He’s a tremendous competitor and a great teammate who
constantly seeks improvement, and consistently impacts winning. I am looking
forward to working with him, once again, as we all continue to strive to compete
for championships here in Boston.”
Originally selected with the ninth overall pick of the 2010 NBA Draft by Utah,
Hayward, 27, has posted career averages of 15.7 points (44.4% FG, 36.8% 3-PT,
82.0% FT), 4.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.02 steals and 31.3 minutes in 516 games
played (408 starts) over seven seasons with the Jazz. Hayward’s scoring totals
have improved each year since he entered the NBA out of Butler University,
making him the only NBA player to have increased his scoring in each of the last
seven seasons.
Hayward will wear number 20 for the Celtics.
Player: Gordon Hayward
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