SOURCE SPORTS: Gordon Hayward Leaves Celtics, Signs $120M Deal With Hornets

Gordon Hayward bet on himself and won big.

As first reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Hornets have agreed to a four-year, $120 million contract with Hayward. The deal was confirmed by Hayward’s agent Mark Bartelstein.

Agent Mark Bartelstein of @PrioritySports confirms deal now to ESPN — Hayward leaving the Celtics for the Hornets on a $120M free agent deal. https://t.co/OYnMbp53Xj

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) November 21, 2020

Shortly after signing his new deal, Hayward sent a heartfelt message to the city of Boston and Celtics fans.

Advertisement

“To the city of Boston, thank you for embracing me as your own these last 3 years. I cannot say thank you enough to all the fans, my teammates, coaches and everyone in the organization I built such strong relationships with,” Hayward wrote. “I know there were some ups and downs, but I will always cherish my experience in Boston. I am forever grateful that I was given the opportunity to wear a Celtics uniform and play in front of the Garden faithful.”

To the city of Boston, thank you for embracing me as your own these last 3 years. I cannot say thank you enough to all the fans, my teammates, coaches and everyone in the organization I built such strong relationships with. pic.twitter.com/xsxD05EVKz

— Gordon Hayward (@gordonhayward) November 21, 2020

Hayward averaged 18.8 points and 7.2 rebounds last season for Boston. Expect him to be a focal point of Charlotte’s offense. Hayward never found his place in Boston behind Jason Tatum and Jalen Brown.

Now with the Hornets, Hayward should be the first option and with a reloaded roster including the recently drafted LaMelo Ball, the Hornets should be competing for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.