The Charlotte Hornets are planning to pursue Gordon Hayward in free agency even though it appears the small forward wants to play for the Indiana Pacers, per Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype.

Hayward is an unrestricted free agent after declining his 2020-21 player-option with the Celtics. The swingman signed a four-year, $63 million offer sheet with the Hornets in 2014 as a restricted free agent, but the Utah Jazz matched it.

During the 2019-20 season for the Celtics, Gordon Hayward averaged 17.5 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game while shooting 50.0 percent from the field, 38.3 percent from beyond the arc and 85.5 percent from the free-throw line.

Hayward must have been really unhappy in Boston if he was willing to turn down over $34 million. The former All-Star isn't going to get that type of money on the open market since he's been prone to injuries over the past couple of seasons.

The Hornets are trying to make the playoffs next season after drafting LaMelo Ball with the third overall pick in the 2020 draft. Charlotte's roster is headlined by Ball, Devonte' Graham, Terry Rozier, Malik Monk, Miles Bridges and PJ Washington.

Hayward has career averages of 15.3 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists with the Jazz and Celtics. His days in Boston are likely over, so it's going to be interesting to see where the former Butler star lands.

The Hornets, owned by Hall of Famer Michael Jordan, are hoping they don't strike out with Hayward for the second time.

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