Boston Celtics: Effort, Defense Disappointing in Preseason loss to Cavaliers

Getting Gordon Going

Throughout the first half, it was clear that Stevens was trying to help Hayward find the confidence and rhythm he’s lacked thus far in the preseason. Hayward played a team-high 15 minutes in the first half Tuesday, and spent a portion of that time playing point guard with Kyrie Irving getting the night off to rest.

After being a bystander for much of the first two games, Stevens’ strategy allowed Hayward to be a bigger part of the offense, especially when he was the lead ball-handler. Yet Hayward still finished the game with a team worst -15 plus/minus.

The 6-foot-8 wing missed all three of his three-point attempts, each of which were clean, open looks. After busting hard in transition, Hayward also missed an easy fast break layup in the first quarter and looked gassed to open the second quarter when he botched a switch with Daniel Theis, who is also playing his way back into shape.

Hayward did not play in the second half, finishing with 7 points, 3 rebounds, a steal and an assist.

Perhaps Hayward’s preseason struggles were too be expected given the severity of the injury he had to recover from, but its certainly not what Celtics fans were hoping to see.

Luckily, the Celtics have arguably the deepest bench in the league and have the luxury of easing Hayward back into the rotation as he rediscovers his role.