Preamble:
In 2024, the NBA will once again witness the ups and downs of players' fortunes. Hayward, the former All-Star forward, is now at a crossroads in his career. This article will take you through a few key moments in Hayward's NBA, how he went from glory to blandness, and whether he can find a new turn in the future.
1. 100 million yuan contract, the expectations and disappointments of the Hornets
When Hayward signed that four-year, $120 million contract with the Hornets in 2020, everyone was expecting him to lead the young team into a revival. With his all-round ability and experience, Hayward has become the heart of the team on both the offensive and defensive ends. However, as the game progressed, Hayward's performance gradually declined, his shooting percentage decreased, his turnovers increased, and his points per game average dropped significantly. The Hornets' expectations for Hayward gradually turned into disappointment, and they began to wonder if the $100 million contract was worth it.
Second, the transfer to the Thunder, a new beginning or an end?
When Hayward is traded to the Thunder in 2024, he's looking forward to a new lease of life in his new environment. The Thunder are a young and dynamic team that is in dire need of an experienced veteran to lead the development of young players. Liverward, as a former All-Star, naturally became their first choice. However, his days with the Thunder didn't go his way. Despite his efforts to adapt to the new tactical system and the characteristics of his team-mates, his performance on the pitch did not live up to expectations. His shooting percentage remained sluggish, and he didn't get enough help on the defensive end. Hayward began to wonder if he would ever find his place in the NBA.
Event 3: Playoffs struggle, Hayward's silence
In the 2024 playoffs, Hayward's figure is getting heavier. In the fierce confrontation with the Pelicans and Mavericks, he seemed to be shrouded in a fog, scoring zero in seven consecutive games, becoming a rare phenomenon in playoff history. At critical moments, Hayward did not bring enough support to the team, and his former glory seemed to be just a flash of yesterday. Fans began to question his abilities, and the media relentlessly criticized him. Hayward looked overwhelmed on the court, and his silence became the harshest note of the playoffs.
Faced with such a predicament, Hayward did not choose to run away. He is well aware of his responsibilities and the expectations of fans and the media. He began to adjust his mentality and state, trying to get back to his former self. He increased his practice time, improved his shooting percentage, and tried to help the team on the defensive end. However, on the stage of the playoffs, time waits for no one. Hayward's struggle and silence became a sore point in his career, and it also made him more deeply aware of his own shortcomings.
Event 4: At a crossroads in his career, where does Hayward go from here?
With the playoffs coming to an end, Hayward's career has also ushered in a new turning point. His high salary and low performance have caused the team to reassess his value, and he is facing the dilemma of renewing his contract. Next season, Hayward could face a contract that is well below his current annual salary, and he could even be at risk of being eliminated from the NBA.
Faced with such a challenge, Hayward did not choose to give up. He knows that his career has reached a critical moment and that important decisions need to be made. He began to reflect on his performance, to find the root of the problem, and to try to find a solution. He understands that he needs to adjust his mindset and state to prepare for his future career. At the same time, he also began to communicate with the team and his agent to explore the possibility of renewing his contract. At this crossroads in his career, Hayward needed to make smart choices to pave the way for his future.
Editor's spicy comment:
Hayward's career has gone from glory to low, but he has never given up on his love and pursuit of basketball. In the face of difficulties and challenges, he chose to face them bravely and make positive adjustments. While his future is uncertain at the moment, we believe he has what it takes to rediscover his form and bring more performances to the fans. At a crossroads in his career, Hayward needed to make smart choices to pave the way for his future. We look forward to seeing him come back to life and shine again on the NBA court."