Grade the trade: Pistons dump Killian Hayes in proposed deal

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Detroit Pistons guard Killian Hayes Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

Grade the trade: Pistons dump Killian Hayes in proposed deal

Killian Hayes is owed $7.4 million next season, a hefty price for a guy who may not even be in the rotation.

So trading him does make some sense, but to who and for what are the real questions. If you believe this recent proposal from HoopsHabit, fans of the Pistons may be less than thrilled with the return:

In this trade, Detroit sends Killian Hayes to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for two second-round picks, one from the Lakers and one from the Pelicans, two teams who hope to be in the playoffs next season.

From the Spurs’ perspective this makes perfect sense, as they need a backup point guard, have signaled that they’ll be patient building around Victor Wembanyama and have the developmental minutes to give to Hayes.

Wembanyama would have someone else to speak French to, and if Gregg Popovich can’t coax the best out of Hayes, then he probably is headed to China. The Spurs have bench shooting and could put the right kinds of guys around Hayes to help him succeed. So it makes sense for them.

But what about for the Detroit Pistons?

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