Knicks targeting Gordon Hayward ahead of free agency

The New York Knicks have been “aggressive” in their pursuit of Boston Celtics’ Gordon Hayward all week, according to Marc Stein of The New York Times.

There’s a “growing belief” leaguewide that Hayward will turn down his $34.2 million player option for the 2020-2021 NBA season.

If he ultimately does, the Knicks “may loom” as Hayward’s best option, given that they have cleared about $40 million in cap space.

Hayward, 30, has until this afternoon to decide on his player option.

The Atlanta Hawks also have emerged as a potential suitor for Hayward in free agency.