Good news out of Boston for Celtics fans.
According to ESPN, the team says forward Gordon Hayward underwent surgery to remove screws and plates from his broken left leg and will be ready to hit the court again next season. Hayward broke his leg six minutes into the first quarter of the season opener and was out for the rest of the 2017-2018 season. He was rushed to the hospital for his broken fibula and dislocated ankle. Surgery was performed the next night.
The Boston Celtics reached Game seven of the Eastern Conference finals before losing to the Cleveland Cavaliers, unfortunately without Hayward by their side.
The concept of the screw dates back to around 200 B.C. For Hayward, it was an invention that saved his sports career. The screws and plates were ultimately removed from Hayward’s leg because they were causing irritation. But since they were able to be removed, he’s able to get back to his team a lot sooner than expected.
Danny Ainge, President of Basketball Operations, said that Hayward had been participating in some one-on-one activity. He spoke to ESPN regarding their decision to remove the screws and plates.
“They just wanted to get that hardware out, so the safest bet is him being 100 percent by next year. There wouldn’t be lingering effects,” Ainge said.
The Patriot Ledger says up until now, Hayward has been spending time in Indianapolis working with a number of running specialists as a form of rehab. He’s made incredible progress throughout the winter and spring.
Along with Hayward, the Celtics have also been dealing with another injured player. Center Aron Baynes recently had successful surgery to repair a nasal fracture he sustained while playing in Game six. He’s expected to be back on the court in a matter of weeks.
Hayward is expected to begin practicing with basketball activities by the middle of July. He is said to be back to full-strength once training camp opens in September.