Killian Hayes, the fourth-year point guard for the struggling Detroit Pistons, is reportedly eager to part ways with the team, a sentiment seemingly shared by the Pistons themselves.
The No. 7 overall pick in the 2020 draft, Hayes was considered a foundational piece for Troy Weaver's rebuilding efforts. However, recent developments have seen him relegated to a healthy scratch for the past two games, with the Pistons opting for a full-strength backcourt.
Hayes' on-court performance has been modest, averaging 6.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, shooting 41.3% from the field and 28.6% from beyond the arc. Notably, his minutes have decreased compared to the previous season. The Pistons, mired with the NBA's worst record at 6-42, appear to have little hope for a successful campaign this season.
Adding to the uncertainty is Hayes' contract situation. Approaching the end of his current deal, he will become a restricted-free agent in the summer. The upcoming offseason presents a pivotal moment for Hayes, who could potentially sign with his minimum qualifying offer, commencing at $9.9 million.
As the NBA trade deadline looms just four days away, speculation surrounds Hayes and a potential move. Teams in search of a young and promising point guard might find Hayes an appealing prospect.
Whether a trade materializes before the deadline remains uncertain, but with both the player's camp and the Pistons seemingly open to a change, the coming days could see Hayes donning a different jersey as he seeks a fresh start in the league.
The Pistons Could Feature Two Stars Next Season
Despite enduring a dismal season and striving to avoid setting undesirable NBA records, there is a glimmer of hope for the Detroit Pistons next season. The potential emergence of two stars in the lineup could mark a turning point for the team.
Cade Cunningham has been a shining light amid the Pistons' struggles, establishing himself as a future star. The rookie has showcased his skills, averaging an impressive 22.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game. Cunningham's shooting percentages of 44.8% from the field and 34.3% from beyond the arc underscore his potential to become a cornerstone for the Pistons.
Furthermore, there are strong indications that the Pistons are actively pursuing another star player in Zach LaVine. The team has been heavily linked to LaVine, and there are reports of a potential offer being in the works. However, any collaboration will have to wait until next season, as LaVine is set to miss the remainder of the current season due to a season-ending surgery.
For Pistons fans enduring the challenges of this season, the prospect of a lineup featuring both Cunningham and a player of LaVine's caliber brings a ray of hope. As they endure the current misery, the anticipation for the next season becomes a source of optimism.
The team's ability to build around these two budding stars offers a potential path to redemption, and fans must patiently wait for the dawn of a new season to witness a more competitive and promising Detroit Pistons squad.
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