The Oklahoma City Thunder battled the L.A. Clippers on Thursday in their first game back since the NBA All-Star Break. The Thunder acquired Gordon Hayward at the Feb. 8 NBA Trade Deadline but shelved him until after the break in part because of a nagging calf injury, but also to get him acclimated to his new team.
The 13-year NBA veteran is a one-time All-Star who has not played for a competitive team since his time with the Boston Celtics, which ended following the 2019-20 season. He only finishing above .500 once in his 3.5 year career in Charlotte.
The 33-year-old not only made his Oklahoma City Thunder debut tonight, but it was his first game back since Dec. 26 when the Hornets played the Clippers.
Hayward made his debut against the only other active member from the 2010 draft class, Paul George.
This marks the 810th game of the Butler product's NBA career. In 25 games this season Hayward is averaging 14.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. The Former Hornet shot 46.8 percent from the floor, 36.1 percent from 3-point land, and 76.6 free throw line.
The Oklahoma City Thunder will be on the second end of a back-to-back on Friday against the Washington Wizards, where it might be all hands on deck to work through the quick turnaround. The buzz in the arena was felt from the opening tip, and they could not be more appreciative for the Thunder's latest addition.
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