Detroit Pistons’ Killian Hayes capitalizing on preseason opportunity

— During training camp and practice this month, Killian Hayes has primarily played with the second unit. However, after his impressive performances in the preseason, head coach Monty Williams has set high expectations for the fourth-year guard. “I told him that his goal should be to become a starting point guard in the league,” Williams emphasized at the podium, following Hayes’ vital role in the Detroit Pistons’ comeback win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. “That’s what he should strive for. We want him to play like a starting point guard.”

It’s been a remarkable turnaround for Hayes, who was considered on the fringes of the rotation when the Pistons started their camp. Detroit’s front office prioritized upgrading the point guard position in the offseason, trading for Marcus Sasser and Monte Morris. With the addition of Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey, Hayes’ playing time seemed uncertain. However, he has proven to be Detroit’s best all-around point guard in the preseason.

In the Pistons’ home opener against the Suns, Hayes finished with 13 points, seven assists, and five steals. In his second preseason game, he was promoted to the starting lineup and contributed 16 points and three assists. Despite struggling with shooting efficiency in the past, Hayes has been impressive, shooting 12-for-21 from the field with only two turnovers in the preseason. With Morris and Cunningham absent due to injury, Hayes has capitalized on the opportunity to shine.

Williams acknowledged that it is a challenging situation for Hayes, transitioning between playing with different lineups in practice and in games. However, Williams appreciates Hayes’ toughness, defensive skills, and ability to navigate screens. Although it’s still early in the season, Hayes has quickly become a key part of Williams’ plans for the Pistons, thanks to his size, defensive prowess, playmaking ability, and improved scoring.

While Williams may not have room for five guards in his rotation, Hayes’ performance may force him to consider it. Fellow guard Marcus Sasser also had a breakout game, showcasing his defensive skills alongside Hayes. Both guards have been applying pressure on opposing ball-handlers, impressing Williams with their defensive efforts.

Hayes will need to maintain his current level of production to secure a role in the regular season, which starts on October 25 against the Miami Heat. But at 22 years old, Hayes is more experienced and self-aware, understanding his strengths and weaknesses. Consistency, a previous weakness for Hayes, is gradually becoming one of his strengths, garnering praise from Williams during training camp and now on a larger stage.

Hayes expressed his belief that growth comes with experience and learning from both the good and bad moments. He values hard work and staying focused on improving his game.

Contact Omari Sankofa II at [email protected]. Follow him @omarisankofa.

Next up: Pistons (1-1) vs. Oklahoma City (1-1) exhibition game at 8 p.m. Thursday, BOK Center, Tulsa, Oklahoma. The game will not be televised.

Reference

Emily Turner

Emily Turner is your source for everything NBA. As a dedicated basketball enthusiast, she offers insights into NBA games, player highlights, trade rumors, and the league’s evolving dynamics. Emily’s love for the sport shines through in her comprehensive NBA coverage.