The word from the Boston Celtics is that Gordon Hayward is slated to be back in action at some point in the Eastern Conference Finals versus the Miami Heat. In nine playoff games thus far, Miami has nine players averaging double-digit minutes per game, with six of them scoring double-digits in points. Conversely, in 11 post-season contests, Boston equals the Heat with nine players with more than 10 minutes per game, but only four of which put up more than 10 points per game.
If Kemba Walker, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart continue to log 40-or-more minutes in this post-season, fatigue and the real threat of further injuries could become reality. Hayward's status will most-likely be day-by-day, but his team could really use his services as soon as his recovery is complete.
In the regular season, Gordon averaged 33.5 minutes/game with a stat line of 17.5 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.1 assists. He is totally capable of multiple 20-point games, and his passing skills are well known. And adding a fifth 3-point threat on the perimeter, in addition to Gordon's ball-handling, would put a lot more pressure on the Miami defense. He is already putting up shots and doing some running. We await further news on his impending return to bolster Boston's legitimate shot at Title #18.
I can't think of a team that needed three days of rest more than Boston does right now.
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) September 12, 2020
Plus, it allows Gordon Hayward three more days to work up to a return.
The Celtics should be thankful for the NFL kicking off this Sunday/Monday.
If Kemba Walker, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart continue to log 40-or-more minutes in this post-season, fatigue and the real threat of further injuries could become reality. Hayward's status will most-likely be day-by-day, but his team could really use his services as soon as his recovery is complete.
In the regular season, Gordon averaged 33.5 minutes/game with a stat line of 17.5 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.1 assists. He is totally capable of multiple 20-point games, and his passing skills are well known. And adding a fifth 3-point threat on the perimeter, in addition to Gordon's ball-handling, would put a lot more pressure on the Miami defense. He is already putting up shots and doing some running. We await further news on his impending return to bolster Boston's legitimate shot at Title #18.
Gordon Hayward out shooting before the game 👀#Celtics pic.twitter.com/asYVh8Nn4q
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) September 12, 2020
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