We haven't really gotten into it too much because we have our hands full tonight.I have read with a lot of interest “The Hunt” by Brad Stevens. A guy who can put the ball in the basket for you. I think we will at least be actively looking for that roster spot, just because, obviously, the standpoint of the youth, but also because you lose one of your better shooters and more versatile players. 'We are bringing Jabari Bird back and using one of his two-way days today. 'I think that we will probably look at the roster spot,' Stevens said. Stevens said the Celtics will begin looking at how best to fill Hayward's vacancy, including a potential roster addition. But one of the tasks that we have now is to pick up steam for him, and guys that get opportunities that may not have or guys that get opportunities from a more minutes standpoint need to be ready to take advantage of those.' So certainly you miss that - and that camaraderie. He's a guy you want to play with on both ends of the floor. 'I think the biggest thing is they really care about Gordon,' Stevens said. Stevens noted how his players' thoughts are on Hayward. And we know there are going to be a lot of tough days ahead on that recovery but, at the same time, hopefully he'll improve day to day. 'But this is a setback we're expecting a full recovery. 'Obviously, there's a physical pain to it, but I think it's also doubled by the emotional pain of, you know, he put a lot of effort into trying to start this, his career, out well in Boston. 'I was for a minute last night and also again today for an hour or so. Kill it tonight.'Ĭeltics coach Brad Stevens said before Wednesday's 108-100 loss that Hayward was 'down' after the injury that occurred a little more than five minutes into his Boston debut. It's hurting me that I can't be there for the home opener I want nothing more just to be with my teammates and walk out onto that floor tonight. 'What's up, everybody? I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has kept me in their thoughts and prayers,' Hayward said. Wearing a hospital gown, Hayward told fans he'll be 'all right' and said it pained him not to be with his teammates in Boston. Smart instead directed attention to the video board for Hayward's message. Marcus Smart, the longest-tenured Celtic on a team that returned just four players from last season, was scheduled to deliver an address before the game. Earlier Wednesday, Hayward taped a video message to Boston fans from his hospital bed, and it aired to thunderous applause before the Celtics' home opener on Wednesday night against the Milwaukee Bucks at TD Garden.

The Hunt by Brad Stevens