Victor Wembanyama dominates and other takeaways from Thunder’s loss to Spurs

What exactly does Gordon Hayward bring to the Thunder?

Gordon Hayward has only played five games in an OKC Thunder uniform since his trade from the Charlotte Hornets at February's trade deadline.

Hayward has averaged 15 minutes across all five games. However, he was scoreless in three, including this one versus the Spurs. 

The 33-year-old veteran missed all three shots and only contributed one rebound and one assist in just 12 minutes of playing time. Hayward had reps as a ball handler, turning himself into a solid connector on plays and becoming a release valve in some instances. 

Hypothetically, Hayward should add shooting and length in the frontcourt to boost the Thunder’s versatility. Still, there are no signs of these attributes coming to fruition soon as he has not taken any three-pointers with the Thunder yet while averaging about just around four rebounds in all five games so far.

This lack of impact on games has created more questions than answers regarding his fit on the team.

Hayward, the oldest player on the Thunder roster, is expected to start providing impact for the club anytime soon. While his defense and rebounding have been there, Hayward’s shooting, or even the threat of him shooting, would do wonders to help maximize his time on the floor.  

For now, Hayward, whose fit, at least on paper, looks good for the team, remained a crucial piece for the contending Thunder. Time and more reps will only help show Hayward’s real fit with the team.