Celtics F Hayward recovering ahead of schedule

Boston Celtics forward Gordon Hayward is ahead of schedule in his recovery from a broken bone in his left hand, according to a report Friday from NBC Sports Boston. Hayward underwent surgery on his hand Nov. 11 and was expected to miss six weeks, which meant he likely was to return in late December. But the 29-year-old has been progressing well enough that he recently took jump shots after practice without protective tape on his fingers.

The Celtics have not set a specific date for Hayward's return. In eight starts this season, Hayward is averaging 18.9 points, 7.1 rebounds and 4.1 assists. He's shooting an impressive 55.5 percent, 43.3 percent from 3-point range.