Will Hayward be back next year?

[Hey DeDe]

Why wouldn't he be back?

[Hards Alumni]

the correct response to the stated question is.

unequivocally, yes.

[jaybilaswho?]

Zar's going to be able to do whatever he wants on offense next year. He'll be the unquestioned go-to guy on a very young team. I don't think there's any question that he stays.

But will his being the go to guy next year help or hurt in NBA stock? He has certainly been shining in the shadow of the big three. As the fourth offensive option he has done great things. Can he carry that on next year when there is no more shadow to shine in? As he moves to the main guy he gains shots and the ability to play a more NBA suitable position, but he does also gain the attention of 3 more defenders that in years past have been busy with the three amigos. I honestly do not know if he will be able to continue on his current 'learning'/improvement curve.

[MR.HAYWARD]

if every kid that scored 15 points a game as a junior in was good enough to play in the NBA the NBA would need to be about 400 teams. 

Hayward has a chance to play in the league but it will take another 18 months of incredibly hard work and dramatic improvement.  Not to say he is not a very fine collge bball player but the NBA is the best league in the world and only has about 45 openings a year.

[WashDCWarrior]

I fully expect significant statistical improvement next year. Something like 21 and 9. That's going to get a lot of notice in the Big East. He is sort of in between a 2 and a 3 in NBA terms, but the fact that he plays much taller than his height will help with that.  He plays bigger than Novak despite giving up 4 inches.

All that said, I see him as an early 2nd rounder next year

[MUSF]

The first guy that comes to mind when comparing Lazar is Alando Tucker.  They are similar size, builds, and quickness.  They both can score from just about anywhere and have a knack for the ball.  Tucker was a very good college basketball player and can't get near the court at the next level.  I wish him all the best, but I don't see Hayward being a contributor at the next level.  That said, he could make a roster.

+1

I said the exact same thing the last time we had the Lazar to the NBA discussion.  His game really doesn't translate to the NBA.  That said, he is a great college player and we are lucky to have him.

BTW, I love the Richard Shaw handle.  Unless you actually are Richard Shaw, in which case, I hate you.