Pacers 'continue to have interest' in trading for Gordon Hayward

The Indiana Pacers reportedly remain interested in acquiring Gordon Hayward from the Boston Celtics via trade, according to SNY's Ian Begley. 

"Something to keep an eye on once we find out when NBA teams can start making trades: some within the Pacers organization continue to have interest in trading for Celtics’ Gordon Hayward, per SNY sources," wrote Begley.

The Pacers are one of those teams who continue to be surrounded by rumors, including nonstop speculation that star player Victor Oladipo potentially wants to be traded from the team, as they appear to have hit a ceiling with their current roster. They have the talent to make the playoffs, especially in the Eastern Conference, but seem to lack the roster to make much of an impact in the postseason.

For Boston, they may be looking to move on from Hayward, as his time with the Celtics has been plagued by injuries, starting with breaking his leg in his very first game with the team. Since then, he has been solid but unspectacular when he has been able to stay on the floor. Hayward is expected to pick up his player option, which is worth roughly $34 million, and Boston may decide they aren't willing to paying that much for arguably the fourth most important player on their roster.

Indiana may find Hayward's short contract appealing, as they could essentially use the season as a one-year tryout. If he plays well, perhaps they could convince him to sign with them long term. If not, they can let him leave without being tied to a multi-year contract.