Gordon Hayward, Rudy Gay

The Celtics reportedly have "real interest" in Gordon Hayward.

(AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

The Boston Celtics have "real interest" in impending free agent Gordon Hayward, according to ESPN's Zach Lowe.

Lowe released his annual column of crazy predictions Wednesday afternoon. In the piece, he actually predicted Hayward will re-sign with the Utah Jazz after the coming season. That wouldn't be a shocker. The Jazz have a strong, young core that could take a mini-leap (or better) this year. Assuming the new CBA doesn't change too much, they will be able to offer Hayward more money than other teams as well as an additional year on his next contract.

But the Celtics have shown admiration for Hayward before, dating all the way back to his time as a restricted free agent in 2014. Around draft time this summer, Boston reportedly reached out to the Jazz about a possible Hayward trade, to no avail. At age 26, Hayward has emerged as one of the NBA's better wings. We know how much Brad Stevens loves basketball versatility; of course, he also coached Hayward in college, building a relationship which could come in handy during free agency talks.

Other stars like Blake Griffin and Chris Paul could garner more headlines this summer, but Hayward would fit the Celtics needs in a lot of ways. They want to build a switching, aggressive defense; well, he's 6-foot-8, 230 pounds with enough lateral quickness to guard a number of positions. Imagine lineups with him, Jae Crowder and a fully-formed Jaylen Brown (whatever that might look like). The Celtics need to boost their offensive efficiency; well, Hayward's a career 36-percent 3-point shooter who gets to the free throw line almost six times per 36 minutes and can handle some playmaking responsibilities. Hayward's age also puts him right in line to help the Celtics when their young core hits its prime.

Boston should be able to clear maximum cap space pretty easily this summer. Hayward might not be the top target, but, if he isn't married to the Jazz, he is one of the free agents who would make sense.