Pacers face Gordon Hayward’s Jazz for only time this season

Former Brownsburg and Butler forward Gordon Hayward returns to his hometown tonight to square off against the Indiana Pacers.

In his second season, Hayward is still trying to get comfortable with his role in the NBA. He is surrounded by a solid core, including Devin Harris, Paul Millsap, and Al Jefferson.

The Jazz have surprised people around the league with their start. Losing Deron Williams late last season hurt, as did longtime coach Jerry Sloan.

At 16-7, the Pacers are currently fourth in the Eastern Conference while Utah, 13-10, is in fifth place out west.  Indiana’s early success has been most impressive because they’ve played 15 road games, whereas the Jazz have played at home 15 times. But they are currently away from home for five of six games.

Hayward has started all 23 games and is averaging 9.7 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. He is struggling with his outside shot, shooting just 25-percent.

The Hayward shot college basketball fans will always remember is his last-second heave from half-court that would have won the Bulldogs their first national title. It was something like two centimeters to long. Regardless, it was an amazing 2010 season for Butler.

Former Pacers point guard Jamaal Tinsley is on the Jazz’s roster and trying to jumpstart his NBA career. Coincidentally, Tinsley reportedly did not travel to see his old team. He has played in ten games this season, averaging 1.3 points and 2.1 assists in those games.

The Pacers are still a bit shorthanded, carrying only 13 players on their roster and with George Hill (bone chip in his left foot), Jeff Foster (back) and Jeff Pendergraph missing significant time.

Tonight’s game is being picked up by NBA TV, so it can be seen nationally for subscribers.