It's endemic to the nature of language that it's hard to communicate intentions precisely. I'll grant you your own connotations; however, I certainly know the difference between the two. Under the above Webster's definitions, Hayward qualifies as superior, well above average, below elite / lockdown defender. If I'd have meant elite, I would have said so, and I don't need to be berated for, nor have meaning injected into, my statements, which is what Mr. Hantler surely intended.
Perhaps next time, instead of being a total prick, a clarifying follow-up might be in order, such as: "Do you mean to say you think Hayward is an elite / lockdown defender?"