Gordon Hayward ruled out for Celtics on Friday due to 'number of nagging things'

Boston Celtics guard/forward Gordon Hayward (left foot soreness) will not play in Friday's game against the Atlanta Hawks.

What It Means:

Celtics head coach Brad Stevens said Hayward needs a night off due to "a number of nagging things," though the official description is for left foot soreness. Jaylen Brown (right ankle sprain) is also sidelined, so look for Semi Ojeleye and Marcus Smart to enter the starting lineup. Javonte Green and Romeo Langford should also see additional opportunity.

Per numberFire's NBA Heat Map, the Celtics have the highest implied total on Friday's eight-game slate (121.5 points).