Gordon Hayward signs $120 million deal with Charlotte Hornets

Four-year contract includes $120 million guaranteed

Hayward is the latest big name to join the Hornets in recent years

Free agent Gordon Hayward has signed a four-year, $120 million contract with the Charlotte Hornets, according to his agent Mark Bartelstein of Priority Sports & Entertainment. The deal includes $120 million guaranteed and an average annual salary of $30 million.

Hayward, a 31-year-old forward, is a four-time NBA All-Star and has averaged 15.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game over his 10-year career. He spent the past three seasons with the Boston Celtics, where he helped the team reach the Eastern Conference Finals in 2020.

The Hornets are coming off a 43-39 season in which they finished 10th in the Eastern Conference. They have added several key pieces this offseason, including Hayward, center Mason Plumlee and guard Terry Rozier. The team is hoping to make a playoff push in the 2022-23 season.

Hayward is a versatile player who can play both forward positions. He is a good shooter, rebounder and passer. He is also a good defender. Hayward is a welcome addition to the Hornets, and he should help the team improve on both ends of the court.