Gordon Hayward's career with the Boston Celtics hasn't been what he signed up for. In his first game as a Celtic two years ago, Hayward suffered a gruesome leg injury that forced him to miss the entire season. He returned the following campaign, but he appeared to be a square trying to fit into a round hole.

After a strong start to the 2019-20 season, though, Hayward had to take another setback with a broken hand. However, Hayward hasn't let the issue deter him, as he is already doing some 5-on-0 workouts with his teammates — gearing up for his return.

Although a small sample size, Hayward was having his most productive season since his Utah days until his injury three weeks ago. He was averaging 18.9 points, 7.1 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game.

With Kemba Walker in tow, the Celtics appeared to be playing the game the way head coach Brad Stevens always envisioned.

So far, the Celtics are keeping their strong play with a 13-5 record. But one can only wonder how well the Celtics would have been if Hayward didn't get hurt so early. To push the limit on that thought, what if Hayward never got hurt two years ago in the first place?

But of course, the Celtics can't look at “what ifs,” and neither can Hayward. What they can do, nonetheless, is hope that Hayward can get back on the floor healthy to help the Beantown team reach the pinnacle.