2. KILLIAN HAYES, Guard, Ulm
At 6-foot-5, Killian Hayes has fantastic tools for a point guard. He’s long enough to defend both guard spots, and he’s athletic enough to operate comfortably as the lead initiator for an NBA team. In fact, he has a real chance to become the best lead initiator in this class.
Hayes is a crafty ball handler who can effectively break down defenses. He’s one of the best passers on the board and possesses a special feel for the game. He’s elite in the pick-and-roll, and can deliver passes from a variety of different angles. There are few players who have the upside Hayes has, in large part due to his dynamism as a playmaker.
In addition to his immaculate playmaking chops, Hayes has real upside as a scorer. He’s already adept at finishing inside, and his mid-range game is solid. He’s not a great shooter, at least not historically, but the numbers are trending in the right direction. His high free throw percentage is a good sign, not to mention his silky step-back maneuver behind the three-point line.