The Sacramento Kings are bringing in a former top-10 draft pick as they look to break a historic losing streak. Killian Hayes has signed a 10-day contract with the Kings, who are currently suffering through a franchise-record 16 consecutive losses. This move comes as the team struggles to maintain competitiveness in the NBA season.
Hayes, selected as the No. 7 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, had a three-season tenure with the Detroit Pistons before being released during the current campaign. He briefly joined the Brooklyn Nets last season, where he showcased his skills mostly in the G League, averaging 9.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 5.2 assists over six NBA games. Unfortunately for Hayes, the Nets opted not to extend his contract following his 10-day stint.
This previous offseason saw Hayes decline offers from EuroLeague teams, leading him to sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers as training camp approached. However, he was subsequently waived and assigned to the Cavaliers’ G League affiliate. During his time in the G League, Hayes had a standout performance, averaging 22.4 points, 4.1 rebounds, 8.4 assists, and 1.6 steals across 19 games, with solid shooting splits of .474 from the field.
As the Kings look to re-establish themselves amidst substantial player absences—most notably, Zach LaVine, Domantas Sabonis, and De’Andre Hunter, who have been shut down for the season—Hayes could play a pivotal role in revitalizing the team’s performance. With LaVine out, Russell Westbrook has stepped in as the starting point guard, while Devin Carter has taken on point guard duties with the second unit.
The Kings’ next challenge will come as they face the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday, marking an important opportunity for Hayes to prove himself and help steer the troubled franchise towards brighter days ahead.