Charlotte Hornets start, bench, cut: Gordon Hayward, Brandon Miller, Cody Martin

Charlotte Hornets: Bench Gordon Hayward

Hayward will have an argument for being the starting small forward. However, Clifford and his coaching staff will need to fight the urge to start the veteran and stick to the plan of developing Miller. Frankly, you can’t trust Hayward to stay healthy.

Consistently chopping and changing the primary rotation will ensure the Hornets look disjointed on both sides of the floor.

Bringing Hayward off the bench would also give the Hornets’ second unit a significant punch, while it could also ease the burden on Hayward’s body and help him remain healthy for what is a contract year. If Charlotte wants to build up Hayward’s trade value ahead of the February trade deadline, keeping him fit and ensuring he contributes are two key factors — a bench role would do that.

The Boston Celtics did something similar last season, as they kept Malcolm Brogdon coming off the bench last season so he could manage his minutes and his fitness after years of injury struggles.

Gordon Hayward might not finish the season with the Charlotte Hornets

Hayward’s status as a veteran forward on an expiring deal could see potential contenders begin circling in February. Hayward’s ability to operate as a primary, secondary, or tertiary scorer and ball-handler would provide significant value to a team with dreams of challenging for an NBA championship.

Teams would also value Hayward’s defensive ability, as he’s proven capable of being a primary defensive option on the perimeter while also being skilled enough to switch across multiple positions. If a team were to trade for Hayward, the likelihood is that they would be looking to bring him off the bench.

As such, starting Hayward in a bench role this season and proving it can help manage his fitness while also bringing the best out of him isn’t a bad decision – regardless of whether he’s traded or not.