Killian Hayes’ Journey with the Nets: A Glimpse into His Recent Stint and What’s Next
Introduction to Killian Hayes’ Recent Stint with the Nets
Killian Hayes, the 23-year-old guard, has been making waves in his recent stint with the Brooklyn Nets. Despite starting the last five games for the team, it has been reported that Hayes will not be offered a second 10-day contract. This decision comes as a surprise to many, considering his solid performance during his time on the court. Hayes, a former lottery pick by the Detroit Pistons in 2020, joined the Nets’ training camp but faced a setback due to a hip injury. After recovering, he signed a G-League contract with the Long Island Nets, where he honed his skills and waited for an opportunity to shine in the NBA. That opportunity came when the Nets parted ways with backup point guard Ben Simmons, leading to Hayes being signed on a 10-day contract on February 20. Since then, he has appeared in all six games, starting the last five in place of the injured D’Angelo Russell.
Hayes’ performance during his time with the Nets has been a mixed bag but ultimately promising. He averaged 9.0 points, 5.2 assists, and 3 rebounds in 27.2 minutes per game, showcasing his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. His improvement in three-point shooting, a area that has long been a weakness, was particularly notable. After struggling with his outside shot early in his career, Hayes shot an impressive 38.1% from three-point range during his brief stint with the Nets. This improvement could be a key factor in his hopes of landing another contract, whether with the Nets or another team in the league.
The Road to Redemption: Hayes’ Journey from Injuries to Opportunity
Killian Hayes’ basketball journey has been anything but smooth. Once considered a promising young talent, his career was derailed by injuries and inconsistent play during his time with the Detroit Pistons. The Pistons, who selected him seventh overall in the 2020 NBA Draft, eventually parted ways with him, leaving Hayes to rediscover his game in the G-League. His time with the Long Island Nets was a period of growth, both physically and mentally. Hayes used this opportunity to fine-tune his skills, particularly his three-point shooting, which had been a major Achilles’ heel in his professional career.
Hayes’ determination and hard work paid off when he got the chance to join the Brooklyn Nets on a 10-day contract. Despite the initial uncertainty of his role, he quickly proved himself to be a reliable contributor. His ability to run the offense, create for himself and others, and play solid defense made him a valuable asset during D’Angelo Russell’s absence. Hayes’ performance not only earned him a starting spot but also gave him a platform to showcase his potential to the rest of the league.
What’s Next for Killian Hayes?
As his 10-day contract comes to an end, the big question is: what’s next for Killian Hayes? The Nets, who currently have an open roster spot, have decided not to extend his contract, at least for now. This decision could be a sign that D’Angelo Russell is nearing a return from his sprained right ankle, which has kept him sidelined for the past five games. Russell’s impending return would likely push Hayes out of the starting lineup, making it difficult for the Nets to justify retaining him on a second 10-day deal.
However, Hayes’ performance has certainly put him on the radar of other teams around the league. His improved three-point shooting and ability to play both guard positions make him an attractive option for teams in need of backcourt depth. Hayes himself expressed optimism about his future, stating, "We’ll talk [about my contract Sunday], but I’m excited. I’m excited for this opportunity. I think it was a great time here. I was happy to be back here. So we’ll see what happens." Whether he returns to the G-League with Long Island or finds a new home elsewhere, Hayes has shown that he still has the potential to carve out a meaningful role in the NBA.
The Bigger Picture: What This Means for the Nets and Hayes Moving Forward
The decision not to retain Killian Hayes on a second 10-day contract is likely a strategic move by the Nets to prioritize the return of their established players. D’Angelo Russell’s injury has been a significant blow to the team’s backcourt, and his return is expected to provide much-needed stability. While Hayes has filled in admirably, the Nets may feel that Russell’s experience and chemistry with the team make him the better long-term option.
That said, Hayes’ brief stint with the Nets has been a success in many ways. He proved that he can compete at the NBA level and showed growth in areas that were previously seen as weaknesses. His ability to adapt to the team’s system and contribute on both ends of the floor is a testament to his hard work and determination. For the Nets, this experience serves as a reminder of the importance of having reliable depth, especially in a league where injuries can strike at any moment.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Killian Hayes
As Killian Hayes’ time with the Nets comes to a close, the next chapter of his NBA journey is full of possibilities. While the decision not to extend his contract may be disappointing, it is not the end of the road for the young guard. Hayes has shown that he has the talent, work ethic, and resilience to compete in the NBA, and his recent performance has likely intrigued other teams around the league.
For now, Hayes will have to wait and see if another opportunity arises, whether it be with the Nets or another franchise. His ability to stay positive and focused will be crucial as he navigates the next steps of his career. As he said, "As long as I can get into the paint, get my guys open every shot, that’s all I want to do." This mindset, combined with his growth on the court, could very well lead to another chance in the NBA. For Killian Hayes, the journey continues, and the future is full of promise.
