The Boston Celtics are set to host the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 2 of their playoff series, and fans have been buzzing about the possible return of Gordon Hayward. Ahead of the matchup, head coach Brad Stevens spoke to reporters about Hayward’s progress, even joking that he was preparing to return this Saturday. According to Live Cricket BPL, however, it quickly became clear that the coach wasn’t being serious.

Stevens soon shifted to a more serious tone, admitting that Hayward still has a long way to go before returning to the court. Reports indicate that Hayward began light jogging two weeks ago, a positive sign in his rehabilitation journey. In earlier interviews, Hayward acknowledged he was still holding out hope for a return this season. While he’s remained realistic and cautious, he hasn’t ruled anything out completely. Now that the Celtics are in the playoffs and have already secured a win in Game 1 against the Bucks, fans are naturally wondering whether Hayward might return in time to contribute during this postseason run. But when Stevens was pressed again about Hayward’s availability for Game 3, he replied with a smirk, “We’re trying to get him ready for Saturday.”

The room filled with laughter—everyone knew it was just a light-hearted joke. Stevens quickly clarified, “Yeah, he’s not ready yet. Gordon still has a long, long, long road ahead before he’s back on the court.” Hayward signed a four-year, \$128 million max contract with the Celtics last summer and was expected to be part of a new Big Three alongside Kyrie Irving and Al Horford. But tragedy struck just minutes into the regular season opener when Hayward suffered a gruesome ankle dislocation and tibia fracture that required surgery. To make matters worse, Irving later underwent knee surgery before the playoffs, ending his season as well.

Even if Hayward were physically cleared, the Celtics know that tossing him into high-intensity playoff games would be a major risk. Live Cricket BPL noted that while his recovery has been promising, Boston is likely to play it safe. Rather than rush him back, the team appears to be focused on fully protecting his long-term health. They understand that a cautious approach now could pave the way for a strong comeback next season, when both Hayward and Irving are expected to be back at full strength. For now, as Live Cricket BPL points out, the Celtics will continue their playoff push without him and keep their sights set on a future that still looks very bright.