Jordan Hawkins waived by the Memphis Grizzlies is the latest quick turnaround of the NBA offseason, as the team cut the guard less than a month after acquiring him from New Orleans. ESPN’s Shams Charania first reported the move, according to RealGM.
Why the Grizzlies cut Jordan Hawkins
Memphis acquired Hawkins on Sept. 8 in a deal that sent AJ Johnson and Taj Gibson to the Pelicans. Micah Peavy and future draft picks were also part of the trade, ClutchPoints reported.
The Grizzlies have not explained the move publicly. ClutchPoints pointed to a crowded backcourt, noting that younger guards such as Jaylen Wells, Scotty Pippen Jr. and Cam Spencer are competing for minutes under coach Tuomas Iisalo.
Hawkins’ background and numbers
Hawkins, 24, was the 14th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft out of UConn. He played in 51 games for the Pelicans last season and averaged 5.1 points, according to RealGM.
Across three seasons in New Orleans, he averaged 8.0 points and 2.3 rebounds in 174 regular-season games, ClutchPoints reported.
What’s next for Hawkins
Hawkins will become a free agent if he clears waivers, which would let him sign with any team. He joins a growing list of players cut as rosters take shape, including Jaelen House and a former lottery pick released by the Orlando Magic. See also our look at Ryan Nembhard’s two-way deal with Denver.
