Gordon Hayward got his mojo back. In the process, he accomplished a feat that no other Boston Celtic has ever done. According to Celtics Stats on Twitter, the one-time All-Star became the first Boston reserve to notch 30-plus points, 9-plus rebounds, and 8-plus assists in a game.
Gordon Hayward is the first Celtics player in franchise history to record 30+ points, 9+ rebounds and 8+ assists in a single game as a reserve (@EliasSports)
— Celtics Stats (@celtics_stats) December 2, 2018
To be fair, Hayward did net the exact stat line above to lead the Celtics to a 118-109 road win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. In addition, he shot 8-of-16 overall from the field, and nailed four three-pointers to round out his spectacular night.
The former Butler standout has been struggling mightily prior to this game. He looked lost at times and lacked the confidence and aggressiveness that earned him his first All-Star nod in the 2016-17 season back when he was with the Utah Jazz. Many were concerned whether he could go back to that All-Star form again.
Hayward is still working to find his groove. Coach Brad Stevens bumped him to the bench in an effort to help ease him back into the game.
But understandably so, he may need just a little more time to get it together. The man just came back this season from a horrendous broken ankle injury that sidelined him for all but five minutes of the 2017-18 season.
This is why Hayward's breakout game was a welcoming sight for the Celtics. Boston finally got a glimpse of their marquee max free agent acquisition last season.
More importantly, the Celtics will need Hayward to be in top form if they want to take the next step and challenge for the Larry O'Brien trophy this June.
Let's see if this can be the start of a consistent run from the former All-Star.
Follow Us
Subscribe