I don't hate the Hayward contract for a few reasons. First, the stretch Batum scenario is clearly a smokescreen to gain leverage over the Celtics to force a sign and trade. Bonnell, who is an idiot, is the only one who has reported it. The Hornets moved on Hayward to fuck up the Celtics-Pacers S&T talks for him, so by throwing out the Batum stretch as the plan it leaves the Celtics with the strong likelihood of getting nothing in return. That forces Ainge to the table during the moratorium to work something out - basically MJ being the vengeful MFer he is and reversing the Kemba-Rozier situation with Boston. So I think there is a decent likelihood of Batum or Rozier going to Boston (Rozier likely then moved to a 3rd team). That's why, even though they reportedly re-signed Biyombo at some minimum number, the amount hasn't been reported as they are still trying to move things around. Obviously that could blow up and Ainge call the bluff and we end up having to stretch Batum, but I like Kupchak having the balls to fuck with him.
As has been discussed ad nauseum, the Hornets are not a FA destination. Their only chance for sustained success is to build through the draft and supplement that with mid-level FAs when possible, often overpaying for them. They've hit on all of their recent picks, so, accurately or not, are probably assuming that they hit on LaMelo. The success of this team is not hinging on Hayward, it is hinging on PJ, Davonte, LaMelo, Bridges, Monk, the Martins, etc. But Hayward, assuming healthy which is obviously a big if, fills a need and is a guy who wants to be here. He signed the offer sheet here a few years ago before Utah matched it, so he likes something about the area. He makes them a likely playoff contender, and I value that experience for the young guys over the increased lottery ball chances.
I obviously like this a lot more if Rozier or Batum ultimately heads out as part of the deal, but even if not I understand why they did it and am looking forward to watching him fit in with the rest of the roster.