Boston Celtics: 3 landings spots for Gordon Hayward if he opts out

Rumor has it that Gordon Hayward could opt out of his final season with the Boston Celtics and test the waters of the free agency market.

Over the past several weeks, the media has seemingly had a field day in regard to figuring out trades in which the Boston Celtics could potentially do this offseason involving the likes of Gordon Hayward should he opt into the final season of his four-year, $127 million contract.

The idea of the forward opting in, of course, has been seen as somewhat of a guarantee by the media, as it’s worth up to $34 million which, obviously, is no small amount of money. That said, money isn’t everything in the NBA, and recently when on the Bill Simmons Podcast, ESPN writer Ryen Russillo reported that Hayward has a very real interest in opting out this offseason.

"“I’ve heard Gordon Hayward does want out, but I don’t know if he’s going to get the money. He’s not opting out of that huge number unless he knows he’s getting the deal.”"

2019-20 saw a resurgence year for the 10-year-veteran in green and white. Through 52 games played, Hayward posted averages of 17.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists on 50 percent shooting from the field and 38 percent shooting from downtown. On the year he proved to be the team’s best facilitator and one of their most consistent shooters.

His production was the best it has been since his All-Star days back in Utah and, with that, may believe he’s worth one more crack at a long and lucrative payday. Should he wind up opting out of his contract and, in turn, move on from the Boston Celtics, here are 3 realistic landing spots for the 30-year-old wing: