Hayward Improvement Analysis

BarneyGumble · Post #1 » by **BarneyGumble** » Mon Apr 23, 2012 4:34 pm

I broke down Hayward's per game statistics during an email chain with a friend. I wanted to share with you guys and get your feedback on his ceiling/limitations/whatever else based on his improvement from rookie to sophmore. Here it is:

Per game, Hayward has played 14 more minutes. Here's his progress in year 2:

Doubled his points, doubled his rebounds, doubled his steals, doubled his blocks, and tripled his assists. He also increased his FT% by 12 points.

On the negative side, his FG% has decreased 3 points and his 3FG% has decreased 12 points, while his TO have not quite doubled.

I think his rookie 3FG% was sort of a fluke at 47% (skewed statistics from end of season vs. early on) and I dont read too much into his decreased FG%...as long as it stays in the 44-48% range I think he's on par with where he needs to be. I like the improvement in the assists and FT%...shows he is understanding the offense more and has worked on his shot. I dont read too much into the doubled blocks and steals...shows me his defense is what it is and with more minutes = more volume...but he may have been underrated as a rookie defender....I think he is properly rated now and gets respect as a defender...but should look to improve his defense.

I think Hayward is the most important player on the Jazz. I think depending on his development, they could become a playoff contender or just always fighting for 8th seed. What do you think? Could he ever become an 18/6/5 guy who gets 1 block and 2 steals per game and is the closer with the ball in his hands late? Thats my hope....

Post #2 » by **FJS** » Mon Apr 23, 2012 5:22 pm

Hayward played way better in the 2nd part of the last season, as he is doing this year.
Gordon needs to begin strong next season, and show he is not only a good player for the second half of the year, because we need him playing well the whole year for our playoffs hopes (and better seed)

red4hf · Post #3 » by **red4hf** » Mon Apr 23, 2012 7:41 pm

I said before the season that Hayward would become the quiet leader of the Jazz, and I think that has happened, for the most part....... He needs to be more aggressive, while staying under control...... I think he sometimes tries to do too much, but at the same time he often defers to our bigs......

When he finds the right balance he's going to be special.......