Gordon Hayward Takes Shot at LeBron James in First Press Conference
Gordon Hayward wasted no time adding to the Celtics Cavaliers rivalry
The Boston Celtics had their press conference introducing both Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward, and it appears as though the two of them may have already had their “did we just become best friends” moment.
It has been highly speculated that one of the biggest reasons Irving wanted out of Cleveland is because he was permanently trapped in LeBron James‘ shadow. Irving also conveniently did not mention James in his farewell video to the Cavaliers, making it clear that the two of them are not on the greatest of terms.
Hayward also threw some shade James’ way, while complimenting Irving, while discussing their recruitment of him in 2014. Apparently, Hayward was not too fond of James’ presence in the recruitment.
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You can check out the clip of the press conference here.
Hayward is not saying anything about the play on the court of the best player in the league right now, but it is no secret that pure ability on the court is not the only thing that makes players want to play together.
Even Kevin Durant addressed the topic, talking about a cult like following for Irving. It is not just that Irving is going to buy into the Celtics, the rest of the players will be ready to buy into Irving.
Then you can bring in the fact that both of these players joined the team largely because of Brad Stevens, and the two of them look like they are ready to really challenge the king.
A lot of Boston’s success comes from their ability to all buy into the same thing, and work towards the same goal on and off the court. It is a minor side note, but the disdain for James will only bring these players closer, and help establish what could be the best rivalry in the NBA as long as James is in Cleveland.
Next: Irving Will Become a Franchise Player
The Celtics and the Cavaliers already had more than enough reasons to have the most intense battles with the most bad blood in the league, and Hayward wasted no time getting himself right in the middle.