NBA: Ranking all 30 starting small forwards for 2017-18

26 of 31

Photo by Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images /

6. Gordon Hayward, Boston Celtics

Finally, we arrive at the real talent headlining the small forward position! The Boston Celtics pulled off one of the most impressive free agency signings of the summer by landing Gordon Hayward, even if they had to trade Avery Bradley and dump quite a few contracts to make room for him.

Coming off a career year in which he averaged 21.9 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game on 47.1 percent shooting from the field and 39.8 percent from 3-point range, Hayward is a marquee addition to a team that fancies itself an Eastern contender both in the present and the extended future.

With the 27-year-old wing teaming up with Kyrie Irving, the Celtics have two star pieces to build around. Hayward’s two-way talents will be a central piece in Boston’s postseason aspirations this year, especially as he reunites with former Butler coach Brad Stevens for the first time at the NBA level.