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Boston Celtics: 5 goals for Gordon Hayward in 2017-18

By Randy Porga

BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 1: Gordon Hayward talks with the media as he gets introduced as Boston Celtics on September 1, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 1: Gordon Hayward talks with the media as he gets introduced as Boston Celtics on September 1, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images
Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images /

3. Stay above the league average from 3-point range

One of the strongest facets of Hayward last season was showcased often on the perimeter. For the second consecutive season in a row, he attempted 5.1 shots from beyond the arc, but during 2016-17 he improved leaps and bounds, going from 34.9 percent the year prior to 39.8 percent the next season.

While he has shot above the league-average from 3-point range once before in his career, being able to bounce back four seasons later leaves plenty to say of his upside.

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Kyrire Irving arguably has the best step-back jumper from beyond the arc in the league, so it should be a blast watching these two perform. Irving averaged 6.1 long range attempts per game and shot for over 40 percent for the second time in his career.

If Irving is anything of the leader he appears capable of being, high on the priority list is blessing Hayward with some additional looks from beyond the arc.

What is observable to the casual eye is the fact of how much space Hayward can create off of his shot as well as getting to his spot. Time and time again Hayward can be spotted left alone in the corner, where he made over 40 percent of those attempts last season. He has a smooth release and shoots well immediately off the catch, having his feet already set.

Shooting on the perimeter was a big deal last season in Boston, as it finished third in the league in 3-point attempts but just 14th in percentage. If Hayward can find the same consistency he had last year, the Celtics have good chances of finishing in the top three once more while also improving their conversion rate.

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