Every NBA team’s biggest question mark for the 2021-22 season

Detroit Pistons: Does a Killian Hayes-Cade Cunningham backcourt work?

The Pistons made Cunningham the top pick in the draft because they believe he can be their franchise cornerstone for years to come. He’s a guy who can make things happen with the ball in his hands. That’s a description Detriot’s front office believed applied to Killian Hayes when they drafted him just a season ago.

Now the team’s coaching staff is faced with the challenge of fitting the two high draft picks together in the same backcourt. Make no mistake, it’s up to Hayes to find a way to make this work if he wants to stay in Detroit for the long haul. Cunningham’s status in the organization is well-established despite his short tenure.

If Hayes wants to make this work he needs to quickly develop into a quality three-point shooter. Cunningham is going to draw lots of attention from opposing defenders, Detroit’s offense will be at its best with a point guard who can make opponents pay for doubling their talented rookie.

Hayes also needs to cut his turnover rate significantly if he wants to become a high-level NBA starter. He doesn’t need to become the finished article to stay in the mix this season, but serious progress is required from the second-year pro.