An NBA player’s career doesn’t always get off to a good start. That holds true even for lottery picks. After all, some lottery picks just don’t have a skill set that immediately translates at the professional level. Others land in a situation that doesn’t suit them. Either outcome can negatively impact the beginning of a player’s career.
What has been the issue for Killian Hayes of the Detroit Pistons? A little bit of both of those issues. Hayes has struggled to create in halfcourt sets, and by now, the Pistons have a platoon of young guards who’ve surpassed him in the pecking order.
Perhaps that’s why the Pistons are reportedly “desperate” to move him. With that said, Hayes showed some potential in 2022-23. Some team is likely to take a flier on him. Here are three that we think ought to give him a look.
Toronto Raptors
For the Toronto Raptors, Hayes is an interesting proposition. This team needs a point guard. Fred VanVleet just departed for the Houston Rockets. Now, the Raptors need to find a long-term replacement for him.
Hayes is not a direct replacement. In fact, he’s practically the opposite of VanVleet. Hayes has plus positional size, but again, his poor shooting makes him a limited half-court creator.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Killian Hayes, Detroit Pistons & Toronto Raptors Updates
In a sense, that’s exactly the type of player the Raptors have coveted in recent years. With that said, they may want to move in a different direction. If so, the Pistons will need a new trade partner
San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs already added a French lottery pick this summer. If you don’t know his name, we’re not sure why you’re reading this article. Victor Wembanyama. He’s the most anticipated prospect since LeBron James. Now, the Spurs need to make his transition into NBA life as smooth as possible.
Could acquiring his countryman help? If so, the Spurs should consider Hayes. Beyond his country of origin, he’s the type of heady player that ought to thrive under Gregg Popovich.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Killian Hayes, Detroit Pistons & San Antonio Spurs Updates
On the other hand, the Spurs may not be interested in a developmental project. If they’re more interested in surrounding Wembanyama with proven veterans, guess what? The Pistons will need yet another trade partner.
Dallas Mavericks
One of these things is not like the other… The Toronto Raptors may be blowing up their roster this summer. The San Antonio Spurs are building around a young prodigy. By contrast, the Dallas Mavericks will be aspiring title contenders.
So? This team still needs a backup point guard. Jaden Hardy is talented, but he’s a score-first guard. Seth Curry is more of a floor spacer than anything else.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Killian Hayes, Detroit Pistons & Dallas Mavericks Updates
By contrast, Hayes is a suitable backup for Luka Doncic. He offers a defensive edge that no guard on this roster currently does. If Dallas is willing to take a chance on Hayes, they should give the Pistons a call. Who knows how his career might end up?
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
