Former 7th Overall Pick Killian Hayes Finds New NBA Home

He was once thought to be a part of the young Detroit Pistons' core going into the future. But Killian Hayes, Detroit's No. 7 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, was put out to pasture by the Pistons last season—waived after a disappointing first half.

Now, still just 23, the rebuilding Brooklyn Nets are willing to take a chance on rehabilitating Hayes into a solid point guard prospect, signing him to an Exhibit 10 training camp deal.

Welcome to Brooklyn, Killian! pic.twitter.com/wlTThNBuv9
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) September 20, 2024

Through his first four seasons, Hayes averaged 8.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 1.2 steals in about 26 minutes of court time per game. But all of those numbers took a dip this past season, and with a crowded backcourt also featuring Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey, it led to his departure from the Motor City.

Hayes, however, can facilitate the offense as well as play some solid perimeter defense with his 6'5" frame and 6'8" wingspan.

With the expiring contracts of Ben Simmons and Dennis Schroder being the only other two point guards ahead of him on the depth chart heading into camp, Hayes really has an opportunity in Brooklyn to rejuvenate his career and take a leading role with the Nets.

First, however, he needs to perform well in the preseason and earn himself a standard contract for the season.