SALT LAKE CITY (June 25, 2014) – The Utah Jazz announced today that the team has retained its right of first refusal and matched the offer sheet extended to guard/forward Gordon Hayward by the Charlotte Hornets. Per team policy, financial terms were not released.
“As we have said since the start of last season, we have always seen Gordon Hayward as a significant part of the future of the Utah Jazz,” said Jazz General Manager Dennis Lindsey.
“Gordon is a young, multi-faceted player and a high-character individual who we are pleased will remain a member of the Jazz for many years to come.”
Hayward (6-8, 220, Butler) appeared in 77 games (all starts) for the Jazz in 2013-14, averaging career-highs of 16.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.4 steals in 36.4 minutes (10th in NBA) to become just the second player in Jazz history to average at least 16 points, with five-or-more rebounds and assists in a season (Pete Maravich in 1974-75 and 1976-77). He led the Jazz in scoring and minutes played, ranked second in assists and third in rebounds last season while posting career highs in nearly every major statistical category. Hayward registered nine double-doubles on the season (seven points/rebounds, two points/assists), tallying seven double-digit rebound performances, and six games with 10+ assists. He scored in double figures 63 times, reaching 20-plus points on 22 occasions. He also recorded single-game career highs of 37 points (Jan. 7 vs. Oklahoma City), 13 rebounds (Dec. 13 at Denver) and 12 assists (Nov. 25 vs. Chicago).
“Gordon is a foundational piece for the Utah Jazz and an important member of the Utah community,” said Jazz President Randy Rigby. “We have appreciated his commitment in the past and look forward to his continued growth both on and off the court.”
The 24-year-old career Jazzman was originally selected by Utah in the first round (ninth overall selection) of the 2010 NBA Draft, and has appeared in 287 career games (179 starts) and owns averages of 12.0 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 28.4 minutes.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to coach Gordon,” said Head Coach Quin Snyder. “He is a talented and versatile player, and will play an integral role in our effort to build the Utah Jazz into a championship-caliber team. We look forward to seeing him continue to develop as a leader on our team.”