Killian Hayes Signs 10-Day Contract with NBA Team After Pistons Release

DETROIT, Mich. — Former Detroit Pistons point guard Killian Hayes has signed a 10-day contract with the Brooklyn Nets, marking a new chapter in his NBA career after a disappointing stint in Detroit.

Hayes, the No. 7 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, was waived by the Pistons to address roster limitations. The 23-year-old player was once considered a pivotal figure in Detroit’s rebuilding efforts but struggled consistently during his four years with the team.

In total, Hayes played 145 games for the Pistons, averaging 8.1 points, 5.2 assists, and shooting 38.2% from the field, alongside a subpar 27.7% from beyond the arc. His growth was hindered during his rookie season due to a torn labrum in his hip, limiting him to just 26 games.

Despite making appearances in 66 and 76 games during his second and third seasons, Hayes could not secure his role as a dependable player amid the Pistons’ rebuilding phase. His tenure culminated during last season, wherein he played 42 games, contributing to the Pistons’ worst-record campaign.

After failing to join an NBA team in the offseason, Hayes opted for the Long Island Nets, the G-League affiliate of the Brooklyn Nets, where he regained form, posting averages of 16.8 points, 7.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game.

His call-up to the NBA ensued after news broke that another former Piston, Bojan Bogdanovic, would require season-ending foot surgery. Bogdanovic’s injury occurred during a playoff matchup against the New York Knicks, and he was part of a trade that brought Mikal Bridges to Brooklyn.

The Nets enter the matchup against the Pistons with a 20-34 record, sitting in 12th place in the Eastern Conference. The teams are set to face off at Little Caesars Arena on March 1, which coincides with the final day of Hayes’ 10-day contract.

Jared Ramsey is a sports reporter for the Detroit Free Press. Follow him on X or email him at [email protected].