Gordon Hayward’s wife, Robyn, recently criticized Sam Presti, the general manager of the Oklahoma City Thunder, for the trade that brought Hayward to the team. Presti took responsibility for the trade not working out as expected, acknowledging that he “missed on that.” Hayward was traded to the Hornets in exchange for Tre Mann, Vasilije Micic, David Bertans, and future draft picks. While Hayward performed well in Charlotte, averaging 14.5 points per game, his production declined significantly in Oklahoma City, where he only averaged 5.3 points per game.
Robyn Hayward expressed her frustration with Presti’s decision to not utilize her husband effectively in Oklahoma City. She highlighted the lack of integration and playing time that Hayward received with the Thunder. Gordon Hayward himself voiced his disappointment at not being given the opportunity to showcase his skills with the team. His playing time was limited, and he only managed three shot attempts in the playoffs. Hayward also suffered a shoulder fracture during the 2022-23 season, which was initially described by the Hornets as a shoulder contusion, leading to further controversy.
Robyn Hayward took issue with how the Hornets handled her husband’s injury, pointing out that he was made to play with a fractured scapula in the last game despite the team’s description of a shoulder contusion. She criticized the team for not protecting its players and for potentially putting them at risk by downplaying injuries. The situation highlighted the lack of transparency and communication within the organization, which Robyn found concerning. Hayward’s injury and the subsequent fallout further added to the tension surrounding his time with the Hornets and their handling of his health.
Despite the challenges Hayward faced with injuries and his limited playing time in Oklahoma City, he remains a free agent scheduled to become available in the upcoming offseason. His future in the NBA is uncertain, but his skills and potential contribution to a team were evident during his time with the Hornets. Robyn Hayward’s outspoken nature and advocacy for her husband have shed light on some of the issues within the league, particularly regarding player management, transparency, and the protection of player health. Moving forward, Hayward’s free agency decision will be closely watched as he navigates the next phase of his career in the NBA.
