Detroit Pistons training camp preview: The guard battles

Detroit Pistons’ training camp: Killian Hayes vs. Cory Joseph

Killian Hayes and Cory Joseph played a similar amount of time last season, with Hayes logging 66 games, 40 as a starter and CoJo playing 65 games, 39 as a starter.

With the additions of Jaden Ivey and Alec Burks, it’s not likely that either Hayes nor Joseph start much next season unless there is an injury or trade.

They will be battling it out for minutes off the bench, which starts in training camp. Hayes will be given every opportunity to prove himself, as the Pistons have to make a decision on his team option in October, while Joseph is on an expiring deal and not likely part of the future long-term plans.

Hayes has been working hard this offseason, but needs to show some improvement on the offensive end before the Pistons commit to him for another season. Joseph is one of Dwane Casey’s favorite guys and a player he trusts, as he had a solid season for the Pistons and was one of their best 3-point shooters.

Hayes doesn’t need to suddenly morph into Stephen Curry in training camp, but the 21-year-old does need to show he’s made strides. The Pistons know what Joseph brings to the table, so Hayes has far more at stake here.

Killian is going to be the first guard off the bench, but Casey won’t hesitate to go with CoJo if things go sour. Hopefully, Hayes will remind people why he was a lottery pick and win this training camp battle handily, allowing the Pistons to move on from CoJo at some point in the season.

It all starts in training camp, where Hayes has to show his potential is worth more than Joseph, who is more of a known commodity.