Tyrese Haliburton nonetheless can’t imagine the Detroit Pistons drafted Killian Hayes forward of him in 2020.
Haliburton is already one of many premier guards within the NBA, whereas Hayes is sadly greatest recognized for his viral lowlights. He was additionally waived by the Pistons on February 8 and is but to be signed by one other group.
Throughout an interview with Taylor Rooks, Haliburton was requested which group passing on him felt probably the most private, and he instantly answered, “Detroit.”
“They’re not choosing me? After which [on the TV it] flashed up, ‘Killian Hayes,’ and I’m like, ‘What!?’”
Hali’s story in regards to the Pistons passing on him within the draft 😅 @TaylorRooks
(by way of Taylor Rooks X) pic.twitter.com/rPnWiThx6z
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 20, 2024
“With the Pistons, I knew they wanted some extent guard,” Haliburton mentioned. “I already felt like I used to be the very best level guard within the draft, as a result of on ESPN, it has like the highest gamers obtainable. One, two, and three had been Anthony Edwards, James Wiseman, and LaMelo Ball.
“So after that, I’m the primary greatest obtainable… it flashed up Killian Hayes, and I’m like ‘what?’ Within the second, I used to be simply indignant… In order that one undoubtedly felt probably the most private, no query.”
Haliburton in the end fell to twelfth, the place he was chosen by the Sacramento Kings, who 18 months later traded him, together with Buddy Hield and Tristan Thompson, to Indiana for Domantas Sabonis, Justin Vacation, Jeremy Lamb, and a second-round decide.
On draft night time, Haliburton’s continued slide down the draft order resulted in Obi Toppin, Deni Avdija, Jalen Smith and Devin Vassell additionally being chosen forward of him.
However he had the final chuckle, with the one participant from that draft who might maintain a candle to Haliburton now being Anthony Edwards.
READ MORE: Tyrese Haliburton Offers Trustworthy Tackle Indiana Pacers Shedding Buddy Hield
