Grizzlies’ latest move could give former lottery pick Jordan Hawkins a fresh start

Jordan Hawkins could get a fresh start after the Memphis Grizzlies agreed to part ways with the former lottery pick.
ESPN’s NBA insider Shams Charania reported that Hawkins and Memphis mutually agreed to part ways through the waiver wire. Once he clears waivers, Hawkins will become a free agent and can search for a new team.
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The decision comes only three weeks after Memphis acquired Hawkins from the New Orleans Pelicans. The Grizzlies received Hawkins, Micah Peavy and two second-round assets for AJ Johnson and veteran Taj Gibson.
Memphis entered training camp with 18 standard contracts and needed to reduce the roster to 15 players. Hawkins was not guaranteed a regular role, making him a logical candidate amid the roster crunch.
The Grizzlies will still owe Hawkins his $7.02 million salary for the season if he clears waivers.
Jordan Hawkins could benefit from a new opportunity
Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Jordan Hawkins (24) goes over Boston Celtics center Luka Garza (52) for a rebound during the second quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Hawkins, 24, entered the NBA as the No. 14 pick in the 2023 draft. He helped UConn win the national championship before beginning his professional career in New Orleans.
The guard has shown value as a perimeter shooter but struggled to find consistent minutes. He averaged only 13.6 minutes and 5.1 points per game last season.
A new team could offer Hawkins a clearer role and more opportunities to develop. His shooting ability could appeal to teams searching for additional spacing on the perimeter.
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The Grizzlies are also reshaping their roster around younger talent. Cameron Boozer, Zach Edey and Cedric Coward headline a new group as Memphis moves into a different phase.
That direction made Hawkins’ future uncertain despite his recent arrival. The waiver agreement now gives him an opportunity to find a better fit before the regular season begins.
For Hawkins, clearing waivers could turn an unexpected exit into another chance to establish himself in the NBA.
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