Brooklyn Nets’ New Hope: Killian Hayes Shines in Debut
Amidst a defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Brooklyn Nets found a glimmer of hope in the form of Killian Hayes’ remarkable debut.
The former seventh-overall pick from the 2020 NBA draft finally took the court for the Nets after an extended stint with the Long Island Nets during the 2024-25 season. Hayes, at 23 years old, signed a 10-day contract just two days prior to the game and quickly made an impact in the Eastern Conference matchup.
A Promising Start
Hayes seamlessly integrated into Jordi Fernandez’s offensive system, contributing five points and three assists in 21 minutes coming off the bench. Despite facing setbacks, including a hip injury during the Nets’ training camp last summer, Hayes remained resilient and dedicated to his craft.
Reflecting on his journey, Hayes remarked, “I mean, that’s just God’s plan, man. Injuries happen. That got in the way, and just going to Long Island, having that whole process and just learning curve and just adapting, and just thinking with it, working hard, and just keep believing my opportunity will come. And I’m just happy to be back here.”
Coach’s Confidence
With recent roster changes such as the buyout of Ben Simmons and the waiving of Bojan Bogdanovic, Fernandez expressed enthusiasm about Hayes’ potential impact postgame. The coach highlighted the importance of having a traditional backup point guard and recognized Hayes’ abilities, emphasizing the significance of the 10-day contract for both the player and the team.
Fernandez stated, “Having a quote-unquote traditional backup point guard also is good for us. Give it a look. This 10-day is important, not just for him, but also for us. And he can do the things we ask him to do, we know who he is. That’s the reason why we brought him in the first place.”
Looking Ahead
As Hayes makes his mark on the court for the Brooklyn Nets, fans can anticipate further developments in his role within the team. His perseverance and skill set offer a glimpse of hope for the Nets as they navigate the challenges of the season.
For more updates and discussions on the Brooklyn Nets, follow Nets on SI on Facebook and Twitter to stay informed about the latest news and insights. Kyler, a dedicated staff writer for Brooklyn Nets on SI and the managing editor of The Torch at St. John’s University, provides in-depth coverage of all things related to the team.