Long Island Nets in a Game (Image via Getty) The Brooklyn Nets’ G League affiliate, the Long Island Nets, recently completed a significant transaction with the Cleveland Charge, the developmental team for the Cleveland Cavaliers. In this move, Long Island sent away the returning player rights of Killian Hayes, a 24-year-old French guard, in exchange for both a first-round and a second-round selection in the 2026 NBA G League Draft.The concept of returning player rights is crucial here. Since Hayes had previously played for Long Island, the team retained exclusive G League rights to him. This meant that if he were to continue in the G League, he could only suit up for Long Island unless traded. By transferring those rights, Cleveland now has the ability to use Hayes directly within their affiliate program.Following the trade, Hayes signed a training camp deal with the Cavaliers, giving him an opportunity to secure a spot on Cleveland’s main roster.
Killian Hayes’ Performance Leading to the Trade
Hayes’ profile made this trade more than just a routine rights swap. Drafted seventh overall by the Detroit Pistons in 2020, he had a mixed NBA career before transitioning to the G League for much of the 2024-25 season.For the Long Island Nets, Hayes turned heads with his all-around production, averaging 17.3 points, 7.4 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game in roughly 33 minutes. He shot 46.3 percent from the field and 37.1 percent from beyond the arc, numbers that stand well above the averages for typical G League guards entering through the draft.
Killian Hayes (Image via Getty)
In limited NBA action with Brooklyn, Hayes contributed 9 points, 5.2 assists, and 3 rebounds in 27 minutes per game. However, his overall efficiency dipped, with shooting percentages hovering around 38 percent.
Why the Trade Benefits the Long Island Nets
For Long Island, the immediate sacrifice of Hayes is offset by the long-term value of draft assets. By collecting a first- and second-round pick in 2026, the Nets’ affiliate ensures flexibility in building future rosters. These picks will allow them to target younger players, typically in the 21–23 age range, who can be molded into NBA-ready contributors over time.This strategic approach highlights the team’s emphasis on developing fresh talent rather than committing to an older prospect who has already spent several years attempting to find consistent footing in the NBA.
Cleveland Charge and Cavaliers’ Motivation
On the Cleveland side, the Charge and Cavaliers gain a player who can make an impact more quickly than an untested draft pick. Hayes has proven that he can dominate at the G League level and provide steady playmaking. For a Cavaliers team looking to bolster depth at the guard position, he represents a safer, more immediate option.If Hayes thrives in training camp, he could transition directly into an NBA role. If not, his presence with the Charge strengthens their affiliate roster with an experienced guard capable of running an offense effectively.
What the Trade Means for Killian Hayes
For Hayes personally, this move opens up a valuable new chapter. After uneven years in Detroit and a short stint in Brooklyn, Cleveland provides a chance for renewed development. His age and professional background give him an edge compared to most G League guards, and he now joins an organization that appears invested in exploring his potential.However, the training camp contract is not a guarantee. Hayes will need to prove he can overcome past inefficiency issues, particularly his struggles with consistency in NBA shooting.
Evaluating the Pros and Cons for Each Party
Long Island Nets
• Pros: Gain significant draft capital for future roster construction, secure long-term flexibility. • Cons: Lose a player who had shown promising growth and could have become an NBA contributor.
Cleveland Charge and Cavaliers
Cleveland Charge in a Game (Image via Getty)
• Pros: Add an NBA-experienced guard who can contribute immediately in the G League and potentially the NBA. • Cons: Risk banking on a player with a track record of inefficiency at the NBA level.
Killian Hayes
• Pros: Receives a fresh start in a new organization with potential for both NBA and G League opportunities. • Cons: Must quickly prove himself in camp or face uncertainty about his role moving forward.
Statistical Comparison and Developmental Context
Player/TeamPoints Per GameAssists Per GameRebounds Per GameFG%3P%Minutes (G League)AgeDraft Position Killian Hayes (2024-25, Long Island) 17.3 7.4 5.4 .463 .371 32.9 24 7th Overall (2020) Killian Hayes (2024-25, Brooklyn NBA) 9.0 5.2 3.0 .381 .381 27.0 24 7th Overall (2020) 2026 G League Draft Average Guards 12-15 4-6 3-5 .420 .330 28-32 21-23 N/AThis comparison makes the trade rationale clearer: Hayes already outperforms the statistical baseline for incoming G League guards. However, Cleveland’s gamble lies in whether he can close the gap in efficiency to succeed in the NBA.
Long-Term Winners and Losers
In the near term, Cleveland gains the upper hand. The Cavaliers and Charge acquire a guard who can step in immediately, while Hayes himself benefits from a new opportunity to prove his value.Looking further ahead, the Long Island Nets may ultimately emerge as the biggest winners. Their pair of draft picks in 2026 represent a strong foundation for sustainable roster building, potentially yielding players with NBA upside who better align with their developmental trajectory.This trade demonstrates the dual priorities within the G League system: immediate contributions versus long-term roster construction. Cleveland opts for a known commodity in Hayes, while Long Island doubles down on future assets. Hayes, meanwhile, gains another chance to reestablish himself.Also read: NBA Trade News: Washington Wizards Bring In $462,629 G-League Star on Two-Way Deal Ahead of 2025-26 SeasonThe end result is a balanced deal that reflects the evolving role of G League draft picks and returning player rights in shaping the future of both NBA organizations and their affiliates.