The Sacramento Kings have signed forward Patrick Baldwin Jr. to a two-way contract and guard Killian Hayes to a 10-day deal amid a challenging season marked by multiple injuries. The moves come during a 16-game losing streak, following the loss of Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and De’Andre Hunter to season-ending procedures.
With the team holding a 12-46 record after 58 games, the Kings are attempting to bolster their roster by providing opportunities for Baldwin and Hayes to compete at the NBA level.
Player Backgrounds and Recent Performances
Patrick Baldwin Jr., 23, was the No. 28 overall pick by the Golden State Warriors in the 2022 NBA Draft and has appeared in 96 NBA games so far. He averages 3.7 points and 2.0 rebounds in 8.0 minutes per game over his career. This season, Baldwin played three NBA games—two with the Los Angeles Clippers and one with the Washington Wizards. In the G League with the San Diego Clippers, he has been more productive, averaging 21.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.2 steals across 18 appearances.
Killian Hayes, 24, was selected seventh overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2020 NBA Draft and has faced challenges establishing himself in the league. Throughout his career, Hayes averages 8.1 points, 5.2 assists, 2.9 rebounds, and 26.1 minutes per game. This season in the G League with the Cleveland Charge, Hayes has posted averages of 23.1 points, 8.3 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.7 steals over 28 games.
Context of the Kings’ Current Season and New Signings
Both Baldwin and Hayes are former first-round draft picks aiming to secure a longer-term role in the NBA. The Kings’ ongoing struggles with injuries have prompted the team to explore options that could add depth and fresh energy. The two players are considered journeymen at this point, seeking to prove their value on an injury-depleted Sacramento squad.
“The Sacramento Kings are signing former No. 7 overall pick Killian Hayes to a 10-day contract, sources tell ESPN.” — Shams Charania, ESPN Analyst
The Kings’ moves reflect a pragmatic approach during a difficult stretch, offering Baldwin and Hayes a platform to demonstrate their skills while the team navigates a tough season.
The Sacramento Kings are signing former No. 7 overall pick Killian Hayes to a 10-day contract, sources tell ESPN.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 22, 2026
