Killian Hayes: 2020 Scouting Report

Killian Hayes has received interest from a variety of teams toward the top of the lottery. As a bit of an unknown international prospect Hayes will have to prove himself in the NBA. 

Bio and Measurables:

Strengths: Even though the definition of a “prototypical point guard” has changed over the years Hayes has shown that he has the tools to fit the mold. At 6-5 he has good size for a guard, which aids in his vision and passing ability. At the international level he had no problem fitting the ball in difficult spots and creating shots for his teammates while he was controlling the offense. Hayes has shown that he can score at all three levels, being able to get to his spots on the court, without over dribbling. In the half court, he can create space from behind the three point line or on a step back mid range while driving to the basket. The acceleration he brings to the offensive end helps him create angles to the basket in transition and in the half court. If his shot is not there though, he does not try to force it and looks for an open teammate. Additionally, as we have mentioned in other scouting reports, the ability to be able to successfully execute the pick and roll has become an essential skill for guards transitioning to the league. With his size, visions and passing ability Hayes is good in the pick and roll being able to make quick decisions and also threaten the defense as a passer, finisher and shooter. With all of these skills at such a young age the ability to develop him in an NBA system will be extremely enticing.

Weaknesses: Even though Hayes has the ability to use his acceleration to find angles in the defense he does not have eye popping athleticism, he is never going to rise up over you and throw down a tomahawk and even though he can accelerate he does not have the best first step. On the offensive end Hayes has proved that he can score at all three levels but the consistency and effectiveness of his current game is definitely a question. He has a tendency to force the ball left, he does not have confidence in his right hand and if defenders can force him right he will make the decision to pass, giving the ball up and forcing him to become an off ball player. Taking away the threat of his passing ability by forcing him left is a major hole in his game as it completely mitigates the size, vision and passing ability he brings to an offense. Forcing the ball out of his hands also makes Hayes a spot up shooter which he has shown no consistency with. His three point shooting is subpar and while he can create space he has not shown the ability to convert at a high rate even with the extra space. In the NBA he will need to find consistency in his jump shot to emphasize his ability to score at each level. As a young player he has shown that he can use offensive angles to finish at the rim however he needs to improve his passing decisions, which should come with development in an NBA system.

External Factors: He is the son of former Penn State basketball star Deron Hayes, growing up in a talented basketball family means that Hayes was exposed to high level basketball at an early age. Hayes has also played internationally which should help him adjust quickly to the NBA game. The only disadvantage to playing internationally is that he does not have exposure to playing against his peers at the college level.

Medical History: Hayes has not missed time due to injury and has no public medical record

Summary: Overall, Hayes proves that he can earn the crucial minutes necessary at the NBA level to aid in his development. From the defensive side of the ball Hayes has shown he does have the ability to defend and rebound, averaging a steal and three rebounds a game. However, these are neither strengths or weaknesses as he rebounds and defends at an average rate young guard. Teams know what they are getting from him in those two aspects and these should remain consistent or marginally improve as he grows in the league. What truly determines the success or failure of Killian Hayes is the strengths and weaknesses he brings with him to the next level. Overseas he has shown flashes of being a promising three level scorer with excellent vision and average defense. Yet, these have only been flashes, with clear consistency issues and visible favoritism for the left side of the court Hayes will need to continue to develop his perimeter shooting along with his ability to effectively use his right hand. If he is able to continue to succeed in the pick and roll and gain valuable NBA experience Hayes has all the tools and the pedigree to blossom into a borderline All-Star at the guard position. If he can’t capitalize on the areas of improvement necessary to succeed at the next level, he will still be able to contribute to the success of an NBA team through situational lineups because of his effectiveness in the pick and roll.