Celtics forward Hayward rules out return in 2017-18 season

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 (Xinhua) -- Boston Celtics forward Gordon Hayward rested any speculation he might be able to return this season, confirming via Facebook on Wednesday that he will be out until 2018-19 as he recovers from the ankle fracture he suffered in NBA's opening game last month.

Hayward was injured just five minutes into his debut with the Celtics on Oct. 17 after signing a lucrative free-agent deal during the offseason.

"I rolled over and saw my foot, and it was pointed completely the wrong direction. My first thought was, 'Oh. This isn't good.' There's something very wrong here. I felt a sense of panic come over me," Hayward recalled.

Hayward went on to detail his full experience, including the initial ride to the hospital in Cleveland, the flight home and the ensuing surgery to repair the bone and a torn ligament in his left ankle. He said that surgery was "really successful".

Hayward said he's received enormous support, including emails from Kobe Bryant and Barack Obama. He added he's especially grateful for support from his new organization, which he joined after seven seasons with the Jazz.

"The Celtics organization has been just over the top in every aspect," he wrote, noting that Celtics coach Brad Stevens made several visits to the hospital around his busy schedule.

"They know I will not be back on the court at all this season, but they have been making sure I have every resource I need and are making me feel like I am part of the team."

Hayward said his biggest goal outside of making a full recovery is to figure out how to contribute to a young Celtics team that is sitting at 6-2 despite his absence.