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Hornets F Gordon Hayward suffers broken finger on shooting hand

Charlotte Hornets forward Gordon Hayward has a broken finger on his right hand.

The team announced on Wednesday that he suffered an avulsion fracture of his right fifth metacarpal — his pinky finger — during Monday’s preseason game against the Toronto Raptors. An avulsion fracture occurs when a tendon or ligament pulls off a piece of bone.

He will miss Thursday’s preseason finale against the the Orlando Magic and will be listed as day-to-day. The Hornets open regular-season play on Dec. 23 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Charlotte Hornets forward Gordon Hayward plays against the Toronto Raptors during the second half of an NBA preseason basketball game in Charlotte, Monday, Dec. 14, 2020. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)
The Hornets just signed Gordon Hayward to a four-year, $120 million contract. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

Disappointing start for Hayward in Charlotte

The Hornets acquired Hayward this offseason via a sign-and-trade deal with the Boston Celtics worth $120 million over four seasons. Paired with rookie LaMelo Ball, Hayward is the face of a rebuild that the Hornets hope can lead them into playoff contention this season.

Hayward, 30, averaged 17.5 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.1 assists while shooting 38.1 percent from 3-point distance last season with the Celtics. He’s expected to take on a bigger role in Charlotte after leaving a Celtics roster that was crowded on the wing.

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