Jordan Hawkins traded to Memphis Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies have acquired former UConn star and NBA guard Jordan Hawkins from the New Orleans Pelicans, along with Micah Peavy and two future second-round picks. In return, the Pelicans sent AJ Johnson and Taj Gibson to the Grizzlies. This trade was announced by ESPN on September 8, 2026.

Hawkins, who played college basketball at UConn, was a key contributor during their 2023 NCAA championship run. As a sophomore, he averaged 16.2 points per game, including an impressive 21-41 shooting from beyond the arc in the NCAA Tournament. Hawkins helped lead the Huskies to the championship title before transitioning to the NBA, where he played for the Pelicans for the past three seasons.

In his first two NBA seasons with the Pelicans, Hawkins averaged 7.8 points per game in his rookie year and improved to 10.8 PPG in his second year. However, last season saw a regression, as he struggled to secure a spot in the rotation and averaged just 5.1 PPG in 51 games.

The trade gives the Memphis Grizzlies two UConn alumni on their roster for the upcoming season, joining Cam Spencer, who helped the team reach the 2024 national championship. The Grizzlies now have a deep guard room, featuring Hawkins, Spencer, Scotty Pippen Jr., Cedric Coward, Walter Clayton Jr., Ty Jerome, and Javon Small. While it may be challenging for Hawkins to break into the starting lineup, a successful season could lead to a more significant role.