Former Detroit Pistons guard Killian Hayes found a surprise deal this week, landing with the Cleveland Cavaliers. It is a bit of a surprise to see Hayes land another opportunity, as it appeared the failed top pick was destined for an overseas deal. One that is now unlikely as Hayes looks to land a spot at the end of Cleveland's bench.
Drafted 7th overall back in 2020, there was always a hint of promise that he was simply never able to live up to. Glimpses of productive minutes were simply far and few between.
It didn't help matters that Hayes lost his cool while struggling to establish himself. The guard took understandable exception to a shove from Mo Wagner, but crossed a line, punching the Magic forward in the back of the head with his back turned to the court. Wagner went down, and the league promptly responded with a three-game suspension. One that served as something of a turning point when it came to fan expectations for the former top-ten selection.
Former Pistons Guard Killian Hayes Lands Surprise Third Chance in Cleveland
In the season that followed, Hayes was simply phased out of the rotation, eventually leading to the Pistons waiving the guard in February of 2024. After leaving Detroit, there was a second chance with the Brooklyn Nets, who gave Hayes a small sample size to earn another ten-day contract. After failing to impress the rebuilding Nets, a G-League assignment was accepted in an attempt to continue to breathe life into a failing career.
With all of this in mind, it was expected that an overseas deal was going to be reached. As the talent in the league continues to grow, there is far less patience with former top prospects. The 2020 draft now feels a lifetime ago, and the seasons since have left no reason to believe that Hayes is going to be capable of turning the page.
Making Cleveland's addition of Hayes a shock not only for the Detroit fan base, who understand the frustrating nature of the player, but also for the league that appeared to have passed him by. For Hayes, it is a golden opportunity with a team that appears to be the clear favorite in the Eastern Conference. With Tyrese Haliburton and Jayson Tatum both expected to be out for the season, there is little reason to argue against the Cavs as favorites.
Hayes has the opportunity to salvage his career by winning a depth spot for one of the league's top contenders. Looking at the Pistons' roster, the loss of the prospect remains the right decision, with Detroit having every reason to believe it will be one of the few threats to Cleveland in what is a weak Eastern Conference.