Hayward returns vs. 76ers after 22-game absence due to ankle injury

Charlotte Hornets forward Gordon Hayward returned to the lineup in Saturday's 144-114 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers.

The veteran posted five points, four assists, and three boards in 17 minutes off the bench in his first appearance following a 22-game absence.

Hayward had been sidelined with an ankle sprain since Feb. 7. The Hornets went 12-10 in his absence but have heated up of late with eight wins in their last 11 games.

Charlotte (40-37) is currently in a three-way tie with the Brooklyn Nets and Atlanta Hawks for the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference.

Hayward is averaging 16.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 48 appearances this campaign. The 32-year-old has been plagued by injuries in recent years, failing to suit up for more than 52 games in each of the last three seasons.

The Butler product is in the second season of a four-year, $120-million contract signed with Charlotte in November 2020.