What a season for Hayward, one of many established names -- along with Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bradley Beal, Rudy Gobert, and Isaiah Thomas -- gunning for a Most Improved Player award that usually goes to someone one tier below these guys.
Hayward has tightened up every area of his game. He's shooting 39 percent from deep, and on his best nights, he looks like a borderline All-Defense candidate. He doesn't have the explosive first step of Russell Westbrook, James Harden, LeBron, or prime Carmelo Anthony -- the ability to pry space on demand for a last-second shot. But how many guys fall into that category? Kawhi Leonard can usually clear room for a decent step-back 20-footer. Does that count? Can Paul George do it?
You hear it from team executives all the time: "Hayward isn't good enough to be the No. 1 option on a championship team." OK, so what? How many guys are?
Hayward looks more in command of Utah's offense every season:
That is some sophisticated pick-and-roll artistry. Hayward has that Alec Burks corner 3 in mind as a possible endgame before he even starts his dance with the French Rejection. (I will never give up on this nickname.) He explores one direction, dips back the other, and knows that second move -- to his right -- will draw Tim Frazier away from Burks.
Hayward doesn't even really pick up his dribble. He just transitions from dribble into pass, all in one motion, and slings a dart that hits Burks in the hands, chest-high. Gorgeous.
