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Utah Jazz: 25 Best Players To Play For The Jazz

By Phil Watson

Apr 1, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; The trees in full bloom and a general view of at Vivint Smart Home Arena where the Utah Jazz will play the Minnesota Timberwolves. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 1, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; The trees in full bloom and a general view of at Vivint Smart Home Arena where the Utah Jazz will play the Minnesota Timberwolves. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 5, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward (20) dribbles the ball as San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) defends during the first quarter at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 5, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward (20) dribbles the ball as San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) defends during the first quarter at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /

<strong>How acquired:</strong> 9th overall pick from Butler, 2010 NBA Draft.. SF. 2010-16. Gordon Hayward. 15. player. 118

Gordon Hayward almost became a hero for Butler, ending his sophomore season with a half-court heave that just missed winning the national championship.

Opting to turn pro after averaging more than 15 points and eight rebounds per game, Hayward was taken ninth overall by the Utah Jazz in the 2010 NBA Draft.

UTA_15_HAYWARD
UTA_15_HAYWARD /

His scoring average has improved each season he’s been in the league and he appears to be on the cusp of stardom.

In 2015-16, Hayward put up 19.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.2 steals in 36.2 minutes per game with a shooting slash line of .433/.349/.824, finishing second in the NBA in minutes played and fifth in minutes per game.

In six seasons in Utah, Hayward is averaging 14.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.0 steals in 30.8 minutes per game, shooting .438/.360/.815.

Hayward is under contract with the Jazz through 2016-17, with a player option for 2017-18. The deal was struck in July 2014 when Utah matched an offer sheet from the Charlotte Hornets.

Next: Power Forward Continues To Evolve

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