Not so long ago, it seemed merely a formality Boston Celtics swingman Gordon Hayward would pick up his $34.2 million option for the 2020-21 season.

However, there is a growing possibly Hayward could decline the option in pursuit of a new, long-term deal.

Mark Murphy of the Boston Herald  reported Hayward's apparent indecisiveness could lead him back to the Celtics. But a league source told Murphy the former All-Star is generating a lot of interest around the league:

According to two league sources, the playmaking power forward hadn’t made up his mind on picking up the option as of Monday night, one expressing the belief that Hayward would ultimately opt in and remain with the Celtics.

The other pointed to what is sizing up as a ripe market.

“All I know is that there’s a lot of people who want him,” said the source.

Hayward must make a decision before the 5 p.m. ET deadline on Tuesday. Even if he opts-in, however, it is not a guarantee he will be with the Celtics next year.

Murphy noted the Celtics are attempting to acquire a veteran big man, which could make Hayward a trade candidate in a sign-and-trade move:

But amid multiple reports of Danny Ainge trying to secure major veteran help — especially big man help — a Hayward sign-and-trade may also be in the offing.

Hayward averaged 17.5 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.1 in 52 regular season games with the Celtics.

The 30-year-old has positional versatility and can be a secondary ball-handler and playmaker for any number of teams. Hayward also shot over 38 percent from beyond the arc last year.

It remains to be seen how Hayward will proceed, but his decision could have a domino effect on Boston's offseason plans.