Cavs bolster roster with Killian Hayes, seeking shooting evolution alongside Mitchell and Garland
The Cleveland Cavaliers made significant strides on Tuesday, solidifying their roster with strategic signings that aim to enhance their depth. Earlier in the day, they secured Thomas Bryant as a backup center, and later, they welcomed a promising point guard into the fold.
Introducing Killian Hayes
The latest addition to the Cavaliers is Killian Hayes, a former No. 7 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. The announcement came from insider Michael Scotto, revealing that Hayes has signed with Cleveland after a brief stint with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2024-25 season. In those six appearances, he averaged 9.0 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.0 rebounds, showcasing his potential to contribute to the team.
Hayes, a 6-foot-5 left-handed point guard from France, spent the first four seasons of his NBA career with the Detroit Pistons. His most productive year came in the 2022-23 season, when he recorded averages of 10.3 points, 6.2 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. Over his tenure with Detroit, Hayes averaged 8.1 points, 5.2 assists, and 1.2 steals, highlighting his playmaking abilities and defensive prowess.
The Quest for Shooting Improvement
One of the critical aspects of Hayes’s game that the Cavaliers are hoping to refine is his shooting. Throughout his career, he has struggled from beyond the arc, converting just 28.1% of his three-point attempts. However, there’s a glimmer of optimism, as he managed to improve this percentage to 38.1% during his limited time in Brooklyn last season.
At just 24 years old, Hayes still has ample room for growth. Joining the Cavaliers provides him with a unique opportunity to learn from established stars like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. With less pressure to perform immediately, Hayes can develop his skills in a supportive environment, where he can observe and emulate the success of his teammates.
A Low-Risk, High-Reward Move
The signing of Killian Hayes represents a calculated gamble for the Cavaliers. It’s a low-risk acquisition that could lead to untapped potential if he can harness his shooting skills and capitalize on the mentorship from Cleveland’s backcourt leaders. With the right guidance and opportunity, Hayes could emerge as a valuable asset for the Cavaliers, contributing to their ambitions in the upcoming season.
