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Life hasn't been easy in the last couple of weeks for Boston Celtics forward Gordon Hayward. Having suffered a dislocated left ankle and a fractured tibia in the opening minutes of his debut with his new team, the 28-year-old Indiana native has a lot to reconcile upon his long recovery process after undergoing surgery.
Hayward admitted that it's been difficult to keep positive throughout the beginning stages of his recovery while still being involved with the team
“I still have negative thoughts daily, especially while watching the games,” Hayward told ESPN's Chris Forsberg. “I wouldn't be human if I didn't. But there are still positive things I can take from this.”
“It happened, you can't take it back, as much as I want to rewind and go the other way on the pindown.”
Hayward's play prior to the injury was as commonplace as they get in the NBA. A pindown screen freeing him to catch a weak side lob and finish, but his landing betrayed him and now it's expected to cost him a major part of the 2017-18 season.
Head coach Brad Stevens wants to keep Hayward around and involved with the team through his recovery process — noting that his growth in closeness with the team will favor his familiarity with the plays upon his return, as well as the camaraderie with the rest of the players.
“I think it's really important for me and my mental health to stay involved,” said Hayward. “Still be a part of the team as much as I can.”
