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The Sacramento Kings have added guard Killian Hayes on a 10-day deal as the team searches for answers during a franchise-worst losing run. The move brings a former top-10 pick back to the NBA stage and gives Sacramento another option amid a stretched roster.
Short-term signing comes as Kings chase answers
Sources report the agreement came together quickly after the Kings extended their skid to a franchise-record 16 straight losses. The 10-day pact is a low-risk way for Sacramento to evaluate Hayes in live NBA minutes.
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This signing aims to bolster the backcourt while the team navigates injuries and lineup changes.
Hayes’ NBA path: high pick, mixed results, fresh opportunity
Selected No. 7 in the 2020 draft, Hayes began his career in Detroit. He spent more than three seasons with the Pistons before parting ways during the 2023-24 campaign.
Last season he joined the Brooklyn Nets on a 10-day contract after time with their G League affiliate. In six appearances for Brooklyn he averaged meaningful minutes and showed playmaking ability.
Recent NBA numbers
- Points: 9.0 per game.
- Assists: 5.2 per game.
- Rebounds: 3.0 per game.
- Shooting splits: 42/38/83 (FG/3PT/FT).
G League dominance earned Philly another look
Hayes declined offers to play in Europe and joined the Cleveland Cavaliers for training camp. Cleveland waived him and assigned him to its G League team.
There he posted eye-catching numbers across 19 games and made a case for another NBA chance.
- 22.4 points per game.
- 8.4 assists per game.
- 1.6 steals per game.
- Shooting: .474/.318/.804.
How Hayes fits with an injury-depleted Kings roster
Sacramento has sidelined key veterans for the season. Zach LaVine, Domantas Sabonis and De’Andre Hunter are not available.
With LaVine out, Russell Westbrook has started at point guard. Devin Carter has handled reserve minutes at the position.
Hayes could be tested as a ball-handler and primary creator for stretches. The Kings will gauge whether his vision and passing translate to their offense.
What to watch during Hayes’ 10-day audition
The short contract puts emphasis on immediate impact. Coaches and front office will watch several areas closely.
- Decision-making in pick-and-roll sets.
- Assist-to-turnover ratio against NBA defenses.
- Shooting consistency from distance.
- Defensive effort on ball screens and in transition.
Timeline and next test
Sacramento travels to face the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday. That game will likely provide Hayes his first chance to show value with his new team.
