Kings Face Decision on Killian Hayes’ Future After Second 10-Day Contract Expires
The Sacramento Kings are at a crossroads with guard Killian Hayes, whose second 10-day contract has expired. The team must now decide whether to sign him for the remainder of the season, offer another short-term deal, or part ways with the 24-year-old playmaker.
Hayes’ Performance in Sacramento
During his time in Sacramento, Hayes has appeared in nine games, averaging 4.0 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in 16.1 minutes per game. His shooting percentages have been 26.0% from the field and 21.7% from beyond the arc. Despite these numbers, Kings coach Doug Christie has been impressed with Hayes’ potential.
I really like what we saw of Killian, said Christie.I told him and other guys, putting shots is one thing, but his defensive presence, his ability to read the game, find open players, distribute the ball… The scoring is going to arrive.
Opportunity Amidst Challenges
The Kings have faced a challenging stretch with injuries to key players, including Zach LaVine, Malik Monk, Russell Westbrook, and Devin Carter. This situation has created an opportunity for Hayes to showcase his skills and potentially earn a more permanent role with the team.
A Playmaker’s Potential
Hayes, a former seventh-overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, has always been known for his playmaking abilities. Whereas his scoring hasn’t been a strength, his court vision and passing skills have been evident during his short tenure with the Kings.
There is trust, and he still leads the team. He has to think of everyone, there is a lot to do at the point guard position. But his defense on the ball carrier was very solid. His physical impact, his attitude… There are a lot of things I like about Killian.
Christie added, As for what happens next, we’ll see. But he got an opportunity and I’m super, super, super proud of him.
Looking Ahead
With approximately fifteen games remaining on the schedule, Hayes hopes to continue proving his value to the Kings. The team’s decision will likely hinge on their assessment of his fit within their rebuilding plans and their overall roster needs.
| Killian Hayes | Percentage | Rebounds | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saison | Team | MJ | Min | Shots | 3pts | LF | Off | Def | To | Pd | Fte | Int | Bp | Ct | Pts |
| 2020-21 | THE | 26 | 25:46 | 35.3 | 27.8 | 82.4 | 0.2 | 2.4 | 2.7 | 5.3 | 2.2 | 1.0 | 3.2 | 0.4 | 6.8 |
| 2021-22 | THE | 66 | 24:57 | 38.3 | 26.3 | 77.0 | 0.5 | 2.6 | 3.2 | 4.2 | 2.8 | 1.2 | 1.7 | 0.5 | 6.9 |
| 2022-23 | THE | 76 | 28:21 | 37.7 | 28.0 | 82.1 | 0.4 | 2.5 | 2.9 | 6.2 | 2.9 | 1.4 | 2.3 | 0.4 | 10.3 |
| 2023-24 | THE | 42 | 24:00 | 41.3 | 29.7 | 66.0 | 0.3 | 2.6 | 2.8 | 4.9 | 1.8 | 0.9 | 1.2 | 0.5 | 6.9 |
| 2024-25 | BKN | 6 | 27:00 | 41.9 | 38.1 | 83.3 | 0.8 | 2.2 | 3.0 | 5.2 | 2.2 | 0.7 | 1.5 | 0.7 | 9.0 |
| 2025-26 | SAC | 9 | 16:13 | 26.0 | 21.7 | 83.3 | 0.2 | 1.7 | 1.9 | 3.4 | 1.8 | 0.6 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 4.0 |
How to read the stats? MJ = matches played; Min = Minutes; Shots = Successful shots / Attempted shots; 3pts = 3-points / 3-points attempted; LF = free throws made / free throws attempted; Off = offensive rebound; Def=defensive rebound; Tot = Total rebounds; Pd = assists; Fte: Personal fouls; Int = Intercepts; Bp = Lost balls; Ct: Against; Pts = Points.
FAQ
- What is Killian Hayes’ current contract status? His second 10-day contract with the Kings has expired.
- What are the Kings’ options regarding Hayes? They can sign him for the remainder of the season, offer another 10-day contract, or release him.
- What has Doug Christie said about Hayes? Christie has praised Hayes’ defensive abilities, playmaking, and attitude.
Stay tuned to 247sports.news for updates on this developing story.