Here's one of the things I like about what Neal Olshey did this off season. He absolutely stole Mo Williams and Dorell Wright. I know Hayward is 5 years younger, but Olshey signed Wright for 2 years at $3 million per year. I know Utah's offer to Hayward is based on potential, but it's only 4 years and if he does break out, he will be free to go elsewhere just as he is entering his prime.
If you look at their advanced stats, they are VERY close. Hayward has a slightly higher PER, but Wright has a slightly higher WS/48. Advanced shooting stats are close (even though it as a down year for Wright), but Wright is a better defender and much better rebounder.
Right now, I'd much rather have Wright at $3 million/year than Hayward at $12.5 million per year. And, since Wright will only be 29 when his contract expires, it's not like he's going to decline rapidly and be over the hill by then. Hayward may very well put up much better raw numbers the next two seasons, but it will be because he's the best player on a really crappy team. Wright will be a back-up on a winning team, but will probably continue to have comparable advanced stats to Hayward.
And, if Batum is injured or traded, Wright can easily step into the starting role where he will be an even bigger bargain.
BNM
