Latest Gordon Hayward Injury Update is a Modest Boost for Celtics Fans

Gordon Hayward is nearing the three-week mark since he was shelved with a fractured hand on Nov. 9 in a game against the San Antonio Spurs.

The last update we received regarding Hayward's recovery came about a week ago when he was spotted shooting jumpers at the Boston Celtics' practice facility.

Well, Brad Stevens provided further insight into Hayward's timetable on Saturday, disclosing that the Butler product is still unable to participate in contact drills at practice, though he's featured in most other aspects.

This report should have Boston buffs feeling optimistic, especially when they consider that Hayward believes that he is ahead of schedule in his recovery process.

"I’m able to kind of lightly dribble right now and shoot," Hayward said via Mass Live. "I’m trying to just build some strength back in the left hand a little bit. So, I mean, I think all this considered, I feel like I’m progressing really well, and we’ll see where it’s at."

The Celtics have fared well without Hayward -- going 6-4 in the 10 games that he's missed thus far -- but it goes without saying that they will welcome him back with open arms once he's fully recovered.

Prior to going down, the 29-year-old winger was off to an exceptional start, averaging 18.9 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists, while shooting 55.5 percent from the field and 43.3 percent from three in eight games.