The last time Killian Hayes played in the NBA, he scored eight points, grabbed four rebounds, and dished out nine assists. After requesting a better opportunity, the Detroit Pistons waived him, and he hasn’t been back in the league since. The Brooklyn Nets saw an opportunity to take a chance on the 23-year-old prospect and signed him to a one-year, non-guaranteed contract. Hayes, the 7th overall pick in the 2020 NBA draft, arrived with high expectations but could never find traction in his 3.5 seasons with the Pistons.
In 42 games with the Pistons this past season, Hayes shot 29% from three-point range. Throughout his career, he was a 27% shooter, which turned Pistons’ fans entirely off him. However, Hayes was an above-average playmaker and defender known for his court vision, passing ability, and solid perimeter defense. Despite his shooting struggles, these skills suggest he still has untapped potential.
With the Nets’ point guard depth, Hayes could compete for a roster spot and earn significant minutes. Why did the Nets sign Hayes, and what potential do they see in him? Does he have an opportunity to make the opening night roster? Let’s dive into it.
The Brooklyn Nets Take Chance on 2020 Pistons’ Pick: Why?
There’s Available Minutes For Killian Hayes In Brooklyn
When you look at the current rotation of point guards on the Nets roster, Hayes’ path to playing time is clear. The team’s projected starting point guard, Dennis Schröder, had a solid 29-game stretch this past season, averaging 14.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 6.0 assists on 42/41/79% shooting. Beyond Schroder, there are many questions about the other players and their projected playing time.
The Nets hope Ben Simmons can return to form after being largely absent for the past three seasons. Simmons has played in just 57 games for the Nets, including 15 games this past season. Despite the much-publicized summer workout videos, his performance has yet to translate into consistent on-court production. Under new coach Jordi Fernández, Simmons may get opportunities, but his injury history could limit his contribution.
Other potential minute competitors include former 2021 first-round draft pick Keon Johnson and journeyman Shake Milton. Johnson showed promise in his five games with the Nets last season, shooting 40% from three-point range. Milton, however, is best suited as an emergency point guard. Given these circumstances, as a pure point guard, Hayes should have a chance to get some run. While his offensive game is still developing, his playmaking and defensive skills can significantly contribute to the team.
Killian Hayes Has Something To Prove With The Nets
Some say Hayes was doomed from the start in Detroit, as his rookie season faced the challenges of a reduced 72-game schedule and mostly empty arenas due to COVID-19. Following Hayes’ rookie year, the Pistons secured the No.1 overall pick and selected fellow point guard Cade Cunningham, shifting the team’s focus to Cade’s development. Jaden Ivey’s drafting the following year signaled that Hayes’ days in Detroit were numbered.
Despite this, former Pistons head coach Monty Williams maintained faith in Hayes, starting him as the point guard primarily due to his defensive prowess and pure point guard skills. Hayes couldn’t develop his jump shot or improve his right hand, leading to his benching just ten games in.
Many set expectations too high for a 19-year-old expected to save a struggling Pistons team. Comparisons to point guards in his draft class Tyrese Haliburton, Tyrese Maxey, and Immanuel Quickley, who have all developed into legitimate NBA talents, only fueled Hayes’ frustration. The real issue may have been the lack of the right coaching to develop his skills. Physically, Hayes passes the eye test: standing at 6’5”, weighing 195 pounds, with a 6’8” wingspan. Now, with a fresh start in Brooklyn, Hayes has another opportunity to prove his critics wrong and fulfill his potential.
The Last Word
In Brooklyn, Killian Hayes is no longer the savior of a struggling team but a young player with something to prove. His physical attributes, playmaking, and defensive abilities give him a solid foundation to build. By improving his shooting and adapting, Hayes could silence critics and become a key contributor for the Nets.
All eyes are on Hayes to see if he can establish himself as a reliable NBA player this season. His career’s story continues, and the Brooklyn chapter could be his most compelling yet.
