Early Predictions For Where Top 2017 NBA Free Agents Will Sign

5. Gordon Hayward, SF, Utah Jazz (Player Option)

Where he will sign: Utah Jazz

Let’s be honest–the Jazz simply aren’t going to let Hayward get away for nothing. Assuming he declines his player option for 2017-18, I’d expect a new deal to put in place not long after. There’s just no way Utah let’s their future outlook suffer such a huge setback.

Hayward is the glue holding this Jazz team together. Since emerging as their superstar, he’s developed into a do-it-all playmaker who is the go-to guy on the offensive end. Based on what we’ve heard, the team isn’t going to hesitant to offer him a max deal this offseason.

Assuming that’s the case, Hayward should accept and be the face of this franchise again in 2017-18. Teamed with Hill, Derrick Favors and Rudy Gobert, he’s helped this Utah team return to relevance in a big way.

While they may still be a few pieces away from true contender status, this group of rising stars has all the makings of a team worth keeping an eye on.

One way or another, Hayward will get a shiny new max contract this offseason. Unfortunately for any other hopefuls (including the Boston Celtics), that contract should be with the Jazz. They’d be stupid to let him escape after six seasons of tearing it up in Salt Lake City.