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Summary

Going into the season, I did not even consider Hayward as a potential free agent because I thought there was close to no chance he would decline his $34.2 million player option for '20-'21. But after his hot start to the season, Hayward will certainly be considering that possibility. Hayward will almost certainly take a short-term paycut if he opts out, but it could lead to more money in the long-run.

 

Hayward and his agent will be doing a lot of research to determine what he will get as a 30-year old free agent in 2020 versus what he would get as a 31-year old free agent in 2021. If Hayward does opt out, it will be a sign that he and his agent know they have a solid long-term offer from at least one team.

Cap Considerations

Hayward has a player option for his $34.2 million salary in '20-'21, and will be an unrestricted free agent with a $40.6 million cap hold and full Bird rights if he opts out. If Hayward opts out, the Celtics will not have max cap space, even if Hayward leaves. However, they could create around $17M, depending on what happens with their other free agents.

 

Hayward will certainly demand a starting salary of more than the full $9.3 million Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception, which means only teams with cap space will be able to sign him. If Hayward and an over-the-cap team have mutual interest, sign-and-trade options can be explored.

Potential Teams: Celtics, Hornets, Knicks, Heat, Suns

Predicted Contract: Opt In - $34.2 million

If opt out: 3-year, $75 million with the Celtics

Actual Contract: 4-year, $120 million with the Hornets

Once Hayward opted out, it was clear he had a big offer from someone, but I don't think anyone expected him to get that big of an offer.

Last updated: 12/31/2020

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