Boston Celtics' big summer signing Gordon Hayward
is likely out for the rest of the season after a shocking
broken ankle suffered in the club's NBA season
opener.
Hayward, playing his first competitive game for the
Celtics against the Cleveland Cavaliers after signing a
$128million deal, didn't make it to the end of the first
quarter after the horror injury.
The 27-year-old landed awkwardly on his leg after
trying to collect an alley-oop pass, but collided with
Cavs superstar LeBron James in the process.
James offered words of support to Hayward as he
was taken from court on a stretcher to a standing
ovation.
It was confirmed following the game - which the Cavs
won 112-109 - that Hayward had dislocated his ankle
and fractured his tibia.
He underwent surgery successfully on Wednesday
night, his wife confirmed, and his agent Mark
Bartelstein has told ESPN it's unlikely he'll return to
action this season.
"We expect him to make a full recovery and return to
his All-Star form," Bartelstein said.
A message from Hayward, shown to fans before their
first home match of the season against the
Milwaukee Bucks failed to inspire his side as they fell
108-100.
He said: "What's up, everybody? I just wanted to say
thank you to everyone who has kept me in their
thoughts and prayers.
"I'm going to be all right. It's hurting me that I can't
be there for the home opener; I want nothing more
just to be with my teammates and walk out onto that
floor tonight. I'll be supporting you guys from here. I
wish you the best of luck. Kill it tonight."
While Hayward's injury is a massive blow to the
Celtics after he joined in a four-year deal worth
£128m, the financial it won't be felt as badly.
Should he miss the season, as expected, NBA
insurance will pay 80 per cent of what they owe
Hayward for the remaining 41 games along with an
$8.4m injury exemption to get a replacement.
From the $29.2m owed to 27-year-old this season, the
Celtics should get back
0 Response to "Boston Celtics' star signing Gordon Hayward 'out for season' after successful surgery on horror leg break"
Post a Comment