Pistons Waive Former Top-10 Pick Killian Hayes During Flurry of Trade Deadline Moves, per Report

The Detroit Pistons have made a significant move ahead of the 2024 NBA trade deadline, waiving former top-10 pick Killian Hayes, according to The Athletic. Selected as the seventh overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, Hayes has struggled to find his footing in the league and failed to meet expectations. The decision comes as the Pistons have been actively involved in multiple trade deadline deals, cementing their role as sellers this season.

Hayes, a 22-year-old point guard, started the 2023-24 season as a starter but was later relegated to the bench during the team’s lengthy losing streak. Amidst his struggles, the Pistons opted to waive him midway through the final year of his four-year, $24 million contract.

Throughout his 11 games as a reserve, Hayes struggled to make an impact, averaging a mere 2.6 points on 29.6% shooting. His shooting woes extended beyond the arc, where he shot an abysmal 11.1%. Additionally, his free-throw shooting stood at just 40.0%.

Despite reported interest from the Minnesota Timberwolves, a trade involving Hayes could not be finalized. It remains to be seen if any other teams will show interest in signing Hayes for the remainder of the season.

In addition to waiving Hayes, the Pistons were involved in several other deadline deals. They traded Monté Morris to the Timberwolves and acquired Danuel House and a second-round pick from the Philadelphia 76ers. However, they reportedly intend to waive House alongside Hayes and veteran Joe Harris.