If the Boston Celtics look to trade Gordon Hayward this offseason, it sounds like Danny Ainge has at least one club to call.
Back in June, J. Michael of the Indianapolis Star mentioned on NBC Sports Boston's Celtics Talk Podcast that the Indiana Pacers would have interest in Hayward this offseason if he becomes available.
On Thursday, SNY's Ian Begley reported that some members of the Pacers "continue to have interest" in trading for Hayward.
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Forsberg: Exploring Celtics' three options to solve Hayward dilemma
Indy's reported interest in Hayward isn't surprising: The 30-year-old grew up in Indianapolis, and the Pacers could use more offensive firepower after flaming out to the Miami Heat in the first round of the 2020 playoffs.
Hayward can become a free agent this offseason if he declines his $34 million player option, but many expect him to exercise his option and test free agency in 2021, which would make him a prime trade candidate this year.
So, what could a Celtics-Pacers trade involving Hayward look like? It may involve Indiana big man Myles Turner, who is making $18 million per year and could help beef up a Boston frontcourt that relied heavily on Daniel Theis last season.
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Pacers star Victor Oladipo also is looking to move on this offseason, per The Athletic's Jared Weiss, and while Kemba Walker is locked in as the Celtics' point guard, Oladipo would give Boston another elite scoring option.
Celtics Talk Podcast: Pondering Gordon Hayward’s future and a curious C's offseason | Listen & subscribe | Watch on YouTube
Indy likely would need to trade multiple players to the Celtics to offset Hayward's $34 million cap hit. But it appears the Pacers are at least open to the idea of adding Hayward, which adds another intriguing wrinkle to the Celtics' offseason.