Subscribe
Follow Us
Two of the best products of the 2010 NBA Draft could join forces in the near future, depending on how their futures line up. Paul George hasn't had the season he was hoping for after the Indiana Pacers made plenty of talented acquisitions to supplement a roster that just didn't have the punch to compete with the East's elite. The 6-foot-9 swingman reportedly “would love to play” with Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward, according to ESPN's Zach Lowe.
While the possibility is slim, considering Hayward and the Jazz are in line for a strong playoff run holding the fourth seed in the West, a potential lineup of Jeff Teague, Hayward, George, and an ever-improving Myles Turner, could start to make waves in the standings.
Article Continues Below
George and Hayward have similar games, with both being capable three-point shooters, excellent at the line and great finishers around the rim, with PG13 having the edge as an elite defender at his position.
The main reason this duo can't be more than just a long shot lies in the numbers. If either player earns All-NBA honors, they would qualify for a designated veteran player provision with their current team, also known as a supermax contract provisioned by the new CBA. This would allow their respective teams to sign them to a maximum contract worth well over $200 million — a very enticing sum that is designed to make a player think twice before leaving the team.
If Hayward, an Indiana native, chooses to opt out of his contract; the Pacers won't be the only ones urging for his services. Former Butler head coach Brad Stevens, now of the Boston Celtics, would surely take a stab at acquiring his old player.
