Detroit Pistons: 3 takeaways from youthful loss to the Mavericks

Detroit Pistons: Killian Hayes’ passing while gassed

Killian Hayes had another strong game passing the ball, racking up 11 assists which was a career high.

The Pistons were putting on a dunking display early in the game, largely because of Hayes’ ability to see the court and make pinpoint passes. Look at the patience he shows here as he sets up Beef Stew for the dunk:

Hayes changes speed just slightly, drawing in the defense, which gives Stewart the opening he needs before Killian puts it right in his hands at the rim.

He didn’t shoot the ball well, and I’d still like to see him shoot more in those situations, but he did have one beautiful take to the rim. When he starts knocking those down regularly, he is going to be a handful, as the kid is already a great passer.

Hayes played 30 minutes and was showing some signs of fatigue, which is not unusual for a young player, especially one coming off injury. Dwane Casey noticed and had this to say after the game:

"“One thing he’s got to continue to do is understand that you’ve got to be in great NBA condition, and the stamina level for a 19-year-old is not the same as an older player in the league, who knows the speed of the game and the endurance you have to have.”"

I think we know one thing Hayes will be working on in the offseason.

It was a game that showed the best and worst of young players and the Detroit Pistons have to be excited about the level of play they’ve seen from their rookies.