Celtics’ Hayward declines option; Knicks in hot pursuit

Celtics forward Gordon Hayward drives to the basket vs. the Nets.

The New York Knicks are pursuing Boston Celtics small forward Gordon Hayward, who declined a $34.2 player option to enter free agency, according to multiple reports.

Marc Stein of the New York Times first reported on the Knicks’ interest, writing that they will be aggressive in courting Hayward.

The Indiana Pacers are also expected to make a run at Hayward, Stein noted, and the Celtics may try to re-sign him.

NBA free agency opens at 6 p.m. EST on Friday. Players can begin signing deals on Sunday evening.

The Knicks waived three players — Elfrid Payton, Taj Gibson and Wayne Ellington — and declined the contract option on Bobby Portis Jr., resulting in $40 million in available cap space.

About the Author

Sam Amico
Sam Amico is the founder and senior writer of Amico Hoops. He has covered the NBA on a full-time basis for both Sports Illustrated and FOX Sports, and has been a regular contributor to CBS Sports, the Boston Herald and NBA.com.

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