LOS ANGELES (REUTERS) - New Boston Celtics star forward Gordon Hayward fractured his left ankle when he was bumped in the air by LeBron James and fell with his leg pinned under him in the first quarter of the National Basketball Association's (NBA) season opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday (Oct 17).

Hayward, who signed a four-year, US$128 million (S$173.3 million) contract in the offseason with the Celtics, was trying to convert a lob pass from Kyrie Irving when he and James collided.

The 27-year-old immediately called for help while his ankle looked dislodged.

The team later announced Hayward suffered a fractured ankle.

The Celtics huddled in prayer and new Celtic team-mate Irving had to be consoled while medical personnel stabilised Hayward's leg.

The All-Star was carried off the court on a stretcher.