Hornets To Be Without Forward For Play-In Game

It's unlikely the Charlotte Hornets were counting on him, after missing 26 of the last 27 games, but now it's official, they'll be without forward Gordon Hayward for this week's Play-In game. Hayward has been out with a foot injury.

The Hornets say Gordon Hayward will be out indefinitely with discomfort in his left foot.

Charlotte will be in the play-in tournament this week. Where they wind up will be determined this afternoon.

— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) April 10, 2022

He's expected to have his foot put in a cast, and then be re-evaluated in two weeks. The Hornets would likely have to win two Play-In games first, to be alive and in a first-round series two weeks from now. 

It's a familiar scenario for Hayward, who missed the final 25 games of the regular season last year as well, and once again, missed the Hornets' Play-In game. It's safe to say that his absence shouldn't impact the Hornets too much, as they're fully used to playing without him. 

Hayward hasn't played in more than 49 games in his two seasons in Charlotte since signing a 4-year, $120M contract. 

The 31-year-old finishes the season averaging 15.9 points, and 4.6 rebounds, while shooting 39% from behind the arc. 

Photo Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports