It seemed almost fated that Kyrie’s planned absence would coincide with Hayward’s delayed return to Utah. Yes, it was a bummer that we would be deprived the next chapter in Kyrie’s Scorched Earth Tour, but absence makes the heart grow fonder. (Stevens later confirmed that the serial that’s captivated the league will be back on air tonight when the Celtics face off against the Trailblazers.) But it almost seemed like a respectful bow given the solemnity of the night’s proceedings, in which Hayward was to be the clear center of attention; he cleaned up nice in a sleek all black look for the occasion (Utah barber > Boston barber), was modestly celebrated by his old team and subsequently desecrated by a sour fan base.
Same tune, different city: an uneven performance against Utah and a chance turn the tide in Portland
