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Jazz rookie forward Gordon Hayward was a viable candidate for the Development League just two weeks ago. Now, the ninth overall pick of the 2010 NBA Draft is playing like a legitimate lottery selection, and he has earned the on-the-court confidence and trust of All-Star guard Deron Williams.
Hayward has played in all 12 minutes of the fourth quarter in five consecutive games. He has recorded double figures in scoring in three straight contests. And he had his second-best performance of the season Saturday during a home victory against Memphis, recording 13 points on 6-of-10 shooting and four rebounds in 30 minutes.
Prior to his breakout performance Wednesday on the road versus the Los Angeles Clippers — when he set season highs in points (17), made 3-pointers (three) and minutes (44) — the 20-year-old rookie had only played more than 20 minutes in a single game three times this season. But in Utah's past three contests, Hayward has accomplished that feat each night, totaling 100 minutes during the stretch and working his way deeper into the Jazz's rotation. With C.J. Miles dealing with the flu, Hayward was the first Utah player off the bench in the win against Memphis.
Jazz coach Jerry Sloan was the first to publicly stand behind the rookie, using him as a late-game insertion during Utah's comeback road victory Dec. 22 versus Minnesota. Meanwhile, Williams acknowledged that his own belief in Hayward has recently increased, stating that the former Butler standout is a much-improved player compared with his October self.
Hayward said that basketball is a game based upon confidence.
"With each game it's going to get better and better, and I'm going to get better and better," said Hayward, who acknowledged that the floor is beginning to open up for him. "I try to improve every day, and that's what I'm going to go out there and do."
Winter blues
Jazz center Mehmet Okur (lower back strain) attended practice Sunday but did not participate. He is doubtful for a game Monday night against Detroit.
Results of a recent MRI exam taken of Okur have yet to be analyzed. They will likely be reviewed Monday by Utah's team orthopedist.
Jazz forward Miles (flu) has missed the Jazz's past three games and did not attend practice Sunday. He is a game-time decision versus the Pistons.
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