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With the official start of this year’s free agency happening on Saturday, many teams are already preparing their pitches to some of the highly coveted players. All-Star forward Gordon Hayward is among those who are expected to receive a lot of interest from teams around the league, and as early as now, has lined up a series of meetings with some of his suitors.
It has been reported that the 27-year-old will have a very busy weekend as he will meet with the three teams, who are considered to have the best chance of landing his services, according to ESPN's Jorge Sedano.
“Gordon Hayward will take his first free agent meeting with the Miami Heat on Saturday. Hayward will then go to Boston the next day and Utah on Monday.”
Hayward is coming off his best season as a pro with impressive averages of 21.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.0 steal per game. He has emerged as one of the best small forwards in the league, and was able to lead the Jazz back to the playoffs this year, making it all the way to the second round.
There is growing belief that the Heat have a serious chance of signing him, without the presence of state taxes, and their culture is reportedly appealing to Hayward.
The Celtics, on the other hand, are coached by his former mentor during his days at Butler, and Brad Stevens will definitely be a strong card in play for Boston.
However, the Jazz cannot be counted out completely as they plan to keep their core intact and also make Hayward feel that he needs to continue his career in Salt Lake City and build on the momentum they had this season.
