The Knicks and undrafted big man Nigel Hayes have agreed to a partially guaranteed deal, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
After taking on a primary role at Wisconsin following the departure of Frank Kaminsky, Hayes had seemingly proved his worth at the collegiate level as a more of a leader. Still, he surprisingly went undrafted but New York was smart enough to scoop him right up for Orlando Summer League. The big man struggled to find consistency in his jump shot, but still managed to average 5.2 points and 5 rebounds in 15.4 minutes during his first professional exposure.
Hayes absolutely has intriguing potential. At 6’7″, he’s an undersized big man but that hasn’t stopped him from cementing his role as a defensive bruiser. He’s a physical player who isn’t afraid to mix it up down low. His most unique skill-set, however, could arguably be his passing ability. Hayes dished out a handful of impressive dimes in Orlando and really has terrific vision for a player his size.
He has skills worth exploring, and that’s exactly what the Knicks will do. The partially guaranteed deal likely means that the young gun will participate in NBA training camp and start the beginning of the campaign with the G League affiliated Westchester Knicks. This will allow the organization to keep a close eye on him and develop his game and basketball IQ to their liking, but any other team can sign him in the meantime. Nevertheless, it’s a way to develop a prospect organically and if New York likes him that much, he’ll be fresh in the organization’s mind for a potential call-up while playing in their backyard.
Still, the Knicks have a plethora of young big men already, so it’ll likely be difficult for Hayes to break in so soon. His deal differs from the new two-way contract, as is he is no way guaranteed to see any NBA action or spend time with the big league club past camp. In that regard, Luke Kornet already seemingly has a leg up on him for a potential opportunity. Still, the two are very different players so perhaps there’s a chance for Hayes to strut his stuff and find his niche. He”ll likely grow to be somewhat more versatile than a Chuck Hayes sort of player, perhaps blossoming into a (very) poor man’s Draymond Green.
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