The Oklahoma City Thunder held practice on Wednesday and made Gordon Hayward available to the local media afterward. The recently acquired forward was asked about fitting in with the Thunder as well as about his superstar teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
The NBA veteran gave glowing reviews of Gilgeous-Alexander throughout the afternoon starting off by discussing his MVP case.
“Obviously a front-runner for MVP this year. Well deserved. He’s put it in the work," Hayward said.
The former Hornet reflected on his 13-year veteran and said he does not remember playing with anyone the caliber of the Thunder star.
“I don’t think I’ve played with someone who averaged 30. It’s something you can’t take for granted. It’s rare. [Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's] making it not rare. It’s quite unbelievable he’s able to do it. I don’t want to say it’s easy, but it doesn’t feel forced,” Hayward said when praising Gilgeous-Alexander.
The 33-year-old veteran is having to adapt to a new team one with a youthful spirit which includes a unique post-game tradition. Hayward was asked about barking pregame saying "It's just young guys having fun, I think. Enjoying the moment, being connected. It's good to see. I think they like hanging out with each other and clearly have great chemistry here."
Though Hayward has continued to try to find his footing, he has already seen how good this OKC Thunder is and can be.
"Ultra-talented, a lot of these guys. Can do a lot of different things, versatile... It's been fun getting to see their games and see what their strengths are... They have bright futures ahead of them," The forward said following Wednesday's practice.
Up next, the Oklahoma City Thunder will take on the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday to wrap up a four-game homestand.
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