Smart moves for both sides. But all the pressure is on Hayward now. Like many have said, if he wants to get paid, he'll have to earn this year.
So the Jazz get to sit back and see if he's capable of what he's lacked his whole career: consistency. He'll have the time and the ball in his hands. It's all on him now. So far he's crumbled when the pressure is on. I commend the Jazz on sticking to their guns and not overpaying. Favor dealt in good faith and potentially took a pay cut for the team, good for him but it may hurt him in the long run. Hayward went the business, and admittedly smarter, route here. He and his agent understand the opportunity costs and are taking the risk. Very shrewd.
For those who are butt hurt that Hayward didn't take the Favors route, just cry into your pillow and shut up. This isn't a "Utah" thing, it's a business thing. That's what the NBA is and if you don't like it stop watching games, paying for tickets, and buying Jazz ****. Cause you're playing the game too. Criticizing those who play the game, and who are the actual product on the floor and are taking the most risk, is childish and stupid. Hayward is gambling on himself to succeed, and I like that, a lot. If he lives up to it, the Jazz match whatever he's offered and they move on. Hayward gets paid, the Jazz get our now guaranteed cornerstone piece. If he fails, we let him go or get him at an even cheaper price than we offered yesterday. Win win.
Don't hate the player, hate the game. Or, enjoy the game cause it's awesome and be happy your team, and a potential star player, are playing this smart.
