Ziaire Williams and Killian Hayes seek career revival with new opportunities ahead

Former lottery picks Ziaire Williams and Killian Hayes find themselves with opportunities to revive their careers after being let go by their original teams, as noted by Bridget Reilly of The New York Post.

Williams was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in July after spending three years with the Memphis Grizzlies, while Hayes was signed last month following his release from the Detroit Pistons in February.

Both players are eager to make an impact in their new environments and prove their worth.

“A fresh start is good, but at the end of the day, you need consistency because you cannot keep having fresh starts,” head coach Jordi Fernandez said, highlighting the importance of stability in a player’s career.

“You cannot say, ‘Oh, I’m done here. I’ll go somewhere else.’ Sometimes, when you get hit in the mouth, it’s good to recover and then start and look at yourself in the mirror and say, ‘What did I do wrong that I can fix myself?’”

Fernandez’s comments underline the challenges that come with frequent changes in a player’s career. Both Williams and Hayes have shown flashes of potential but have faced struggles that led to their previous teams moving on from them.

The new environments in Brooklyn and the opportunity to work under Fernandez could be exactly what they need to find their footing in the league again.

For Williams, who is known for his athleticism and defensive abilities, and Hayes, who has demonstrated playmaking skills, the chance to contribute to a new team presents an exciting challenge.

With guidance from the coaching staff and a supportive environment, both players are motivated to harness their talents and become consistent contributors.

As they embark on this new chapter, the emphasis on self-reflection and accountability will be critical for their development.

By addressing past shortcomings and committing to improvement, Williams and Hayes aim to carve out successful roles in the NBA, proving that they can learn from their experiences and thrive in a fresh setting.