Gordon Hayward’s brief time with the Oklahoma City Thunder proved to be a disappointment for both him and the team. The general manager, Sam Presti, admitted that bringing Hayward to the team was a mistake and expressed a desire to better understand and adapt to the team’s dynamics.
Hayward struggled to find a significant role on the team, playing off the bench and averaging just over 5 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. Hayward didn’t mince words when describing his experience with the Thunder, labeling it “disappointing” and “frustrating.” Even Hayward’s wife, Robyn, appeared displeased with the situation.
Despite Presti’s misstep with Hayward, the Thunder managed to secure the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and advanced past the first round of the playoffs. However, Hayward is expected to pursue free agency in the summer, and it seems unlikely that he will remain with the Thunder for another season. Presti acknowledged his mistake with Hayward and emphasized the need to learn from the experience of bringing in a new player midseason.
