OKC Thunder: Gordon Hayward Settling Into Bench Role
The Oklahoma City Thunder made a splash at the deadline, and it’s beginning to come together.
In acquiring Gordon Hayward from the Charlotte Hornets, the Thunder hoped to add another scoring punch off the bench. Although he has not had the same impact he had in Charlotte, the Thunder’s new rotational piece is settling into his role.
In 13 games with the Thunder, Hayward has averaged 4.3 points in 17 minutes. It is not the 14.5 points he averaged as a starter before his December injury, but he is serving a purpose for the Thunder.
Typically, such a substantial decrease in stats would be reason for concern, but this is a sign of Hayward’s willingness to accept a lesser role and fit in with the team. Perhaps forcing a few more shots would be worthwhile, as he is shooting 8.3 fewer times per game with Oklahoma City, but his approach has helped the team continue winning.
Starting one game for the Thunder, Hayward has been a reliable role player. Although he has not shown it much since the trade, he can create his shot and add value as another ball handler.
In his best game with the Thunder, he scored 10 points in a tight win in Portland. With his minutes steadily increasing, Hayward’s ability to get into a rhythm becomes more apparent. And with the Thunder preparing for a playoff run, performances like that could swing a game or two in April and May.
Oklahoma City has various options off the bench for various situations. Yet, Hayward’s skillset is fine for almost any scenario the team finds itself in.
As the oldest and most experienced player on the roster, the 6-foot-7 forward has brought the type of veteran presence the Thunder have missed this season.
Hayward might not get back to his Charlotte form and leave after the season, but the potential impact he could have on a playoff run is something to be excited about.
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