Former Brooklyn Nets guard Killian Hayes has secured a training camp contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers following a trade from Brooklyn’s G League affiliate. The Long Island Nets dealt Hayes to the Cleveland Charge in exchange for first and second-round selections in the 2026 NBA G League Draft.
As reported by HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, Hayes immediately signed a training camp deal with Cleveland.
Hayes’ Path From Long Island to Cleveland
Selected seventh overall in the 2020 NBA Draft, Hayes arrived in Brooklyn last season after being cut by the Detroit Pistons midway through 2023–24. Although waived by the Nets in training camp, he stayed active with their G League affiliate.
In 18 appearances for Long Island, the French point guard stood out with 20.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, 7.6 assists, and 2.4 steals per game. He shot an efficient 48 percent from the field and 41.7 percent from deep, showing improved scoring consistency and playmaking confidence.
His strong form earned him a 10-day contract with Brooklyn. Hayes logged six NBA games, averaging 9.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in 27 minutes while shooting 41.9 percent from the field and 38.1 percent from three. Brooklyn, however, chose not to extend his stay, leaving him to evaluate his next career move.
European Offers Rejected For NBA Shot
Several overseas powerhouses pursued Hayes this summer. ASVEL Basket in France reportedly made him a strong offer, while Spain’s Real Madrid and Turkey’s Anadolu Efes also showed interest. He declined those opportunities, aiming to remain in the NBA and prove his long-term value.
Cleveland provides that chance. The Cavaliers are searching for reliable guard depth behind Darius Garland and Lonzo Ball after Ty Jerome’s departure to the Memphis Grizzlies. The franchise hopes Hayes’ size, defense, and passing ability can bolster their second unit and add versatility to their backcourt.
The Cavs enter camp with two roster spots and a single two-way slot available. Hayes, with five seasons of NBA service, cannot sign a two-way deal but will compete for a standard contract in preseason. If he impresses, Cleveland may see him as a valuable addition heading into the regular season.
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