Hawkins waived: former first‑round pick enters free agency

Jordan Hawkins is officially a free agent after the Memphis Grizzlies placed him on waivers, ending their brief partnership. The move, reported by Shams Charania of ESPN, comes only three weeks after Hawkins arrived from New Orleans in a four‑player trade involving AJ Johnson and Taj Gibson. The 24‑year‑old guard is coming off a difficult season with the Pelicans, where he struggled to secure consistent minutes in a crowded backcourt. He averaged 5.1 points in 51 games during 2025‑26, playing just 13.6 minutes per night, a sharp decline from the previous year’s 10.8 points and 23.6 minutes.

A pure perimeter shooter, Hawkins was selected 14th overall in the 2023 Draft after winning the NCAA title with UConn, entering a franchise that later shifted direction under Joe Dumars. His departure from Memphis now offers a chance to reset and find a team willing to give him steadier minutes and a clearer developmental role.