It seems the Boston Celtics will have some clarity on Gordon Hayward’s future with the team.
Yahoo Sports’ Keith Smith shared Monday that, after re-examining contract language regarding the veteran Celtics forward’s option date (the day he needs to decide whether to opt into the final year of his current deal or become a free agent), it appears the Butler product must tender his decision by 5pm ET on Tuesday, the 17th of November.
What this means for Boston specifically is that they will either be able to (though not necessarily planning to) trade him when the draft arrives on Wednesday evening, or he will be a free agent able to sign where he wants.
If Gordon Hayward opts in tomorrow, he would be trade eligible at the draft on Wednesday.
If he doesn't, he's an unrestricted free agent and not trade eligible. https://t.co/WhZ2VxajPp
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) November 16, 2020
That may or may not include a sign-and-trade to a team without the cap space to sign him, or could see a team with space (or able to clear it) sign him outright.
A seemingly minor detail, it both provides the Celtics draft-night clarity — but also brings the possibility of another high-profile exit a little closer in time.
