Killian Hayes put up stats no Pistons rookie has since Grant Hill

On Sunday, Detroit Pistons rookie Killian Hayes turned in a career night and put forth his best overall performance of the season in a loss to the Chicago Bulls.

Hayes produced a team-high 21 points, eight assists and seven rebounds in 38 minutes of work during the 108-96 loss. He converted on 9-of-17 shot attempts from the field, including 3-of-6 from 3-point range. His seven rebounds were also a career-best.

The seventh overall pick became the first Pistons rookie since Grant Hill during the 1994-95 season to register at least 21 points, eight assists and seven rebounds in a game. He was just the seventh Pistons rookie to ever reach those numbers in a game.

Pistons head coach Dwane Casey noted after the game that Hayes looked to be playing with more confidence in his game. On both ends of the floor, Casey has noticed that Hayes is looking increasingly comfortable, something Hayes said stems from playing more freely.

“Just playing with a clear mind, playing free and not overthink things and just go with the flow and have fun on the court,” Hayes said. “I feel like that was one of my issues, especially at the start, just overthinking things. Now, all of the coaches and my teammates just tell me to be me and just play free out there.”

In addition to Hayes, three other Pistons rookies also put up double-digit outings, with Saddiq Bey scoring 20 points, Isaiah Stewart 19 points and Saben Lee 13 points. While the Pistons lost, Casey called their efforts a good sign of development this season.

The Pistons have received strong contributions from their rookies all season long with Hayes emerging as of late after missing time with a hip injury. He is seemingly healthy now and building positive momentum heading into the offseason.

This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!

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