As the NBA Trade Deadline approaches, contenders are getting ready to put in one more effort to solidify their position in the league. The Oklahoma City Thunder, one of the more unexpected teams this year, is no exception. The Thunder have suddenly become a serious contender to win the Western Conference this year. This is a club that intends to at least make a serious playoff push.
To get the Thunder to that place going into the last stretch of the season would require making a big move during the trade deadline. The Thunder moved to make their move hours before the deadline. Gordon Hayward was acquired by Oklahoma City from the Charlotte Hornets in return for Davis Bertans and Tre Mann.
Despite the fact that Hayward is past his prime, he will provide the Thunder with a valuable senior presence that they do not currently have on their team. With Hayward’s versatility as a wing, OKC will have more options going into their postseason run.
Gordon Hayward might be crucial to the Oklahoma City Thunder’s success in the closing minutes.
Although Hayward has been dealing with a calf ailment lately, it is anticipated that he will return shortly. With 47% shooting from the field and 36% from three-point range, Hayward was averaging 15 points, five rebounds, and five assists a game.
Hayward ought to provide the Thunder with a formidable presence off the court as well. Hayward’s trade deadline arrival to the Thunder is significant for such a young club.
Hayward is anticipated to test free agency following the season. But if everything works out in the final couple months of the season, he might be able to move to Oklahoma City. The Thunder are only beginning to play at their best; as the season progresses, they will only become better.
The Thunder are a club that nobody wants to play against in a seven-game series if they can stay healthy. Bringing on some much-needed Hayward experience might be very beneficial for them in the last run.
