Memphis Grizzlies waived guard Jordan Hawkins on Oct 3, 2025, by mutual agreement, ending a Memphis tenure that lasted 25 days after the team acquired him from New Orleans on Sept 8.
ESPN reported the move Friday. Shams Charania first broke the news.
Hawkins is 24 years old. He was the No. 14 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft.
The Trade That Never Stuck: Grizzlies-Pelicans Deal Breakdown
The Grizzlies acquired Hawkins from the Pelicans on Sept 8, 2025. The deal was part of a larger roster reshuffle for Memphis.
The team cited a roster crunch and salary cap considerations for the quick exit. Memphis entered the waiver period with 15 guaranteed contracts.
NBA insiders noted the move was procedural rather than performance based. Hawkins had not played a regular season game for Memphis.
Is Jordan Hawkins a Bust or a Buy-Low Asset?
Fan reaction split after the waiver. Concerns centered on rapid turnover.
Hawkins showed flashes as a rookie with New Orleans in 2023-24. He averaged 11.2 points per game on 39.7% 3-point shooting in 40 games.
Sophomore year production fell. Minutes dropped in 2024-25 behind New Orleans wing depth. Role issues limited shot creation opportunities.
Comparison to the 2023 draft class remains active. Hawkins was selected five picks before Golden State took Brandin Podziemski at No. 19.
Scouting Report Revisited: Ceiling as a Two-Way Shooter
Hawkins entered the draft as a catch-and-shoot wing with defensive upside.
| Category | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Shooting | Catch-and-shoot 3-point shooting, off-ball movement | Shot creation off the dribble |
| Play | Spacing, transition finishing | Playmaking, handle under pressure |
| Defense | Wing length, potential on-ball containment | Consistency, physicality vs stronger forwards |
Warriors scouts tracked Hawkins pre-draft. Golden State prioritized shooting and defensive versatility in that range.
Where Does a Specialist Shooter Fit in Today’s NBA?
Demand for 3-and-D wings remains high. Roster spots are constrained under the second apron.
Two-way contracts offer a pathway for players with specialist profiles. G League development time is increasing for second-year players.
Teams with open wing minutes and shooting needs are the most logical fits.
3 Best Destinations for Jordan Hawkins Now Available
Contender needing shooting depth. A team with playoff rotation minutes for spot-up shooting fits Hawkins’ profile. Cap flexibility is required for a standard deal.
Rebuilding team offering minutes. A franchise with developmental history and G League alignment can provide consistent run. Opportunity to rebuild value is the incentive.
Team with developmental track record. Organizations that have succeeded with late first-round wings are logical landing spots. Coaching staff familiarity with off-ball systems matters.
Warriors Roster Not Locked? Golden State Connection Explained
Golden State scouted Hawkins before the 2023 Draft. The Warriors selected Podziemski at No. 19.
LetsGoWarriors analysis noted the front office liked Hawkins’ ceiling. The team currently carries wing depth with veteran contracts.
Hawkins’ skill set aligns with Golden State’s motion offense. Roster flexibility after the waiver period remains to be seen.
What Happens Next: Free Agency Timeline and Expectations
The waiver process clears Hawkins for immediate signing. He becomes an unrestricted free agent after passing through waivers.
Signing window is expected in the next 7 to 10 days. Training camp rosters are set, but injuries create churn.
Two-way deal is the most probable outcome. A standard minimum contract is possible if a team values shooting insurance.
Key stats to watch are 3-point percentage, defensive rating, and minutes per game in preseason.
Final Verdict: Hot Streak Tracking Jordan Hawkins
Hawkins carries draft pedigree and rookie shooting data. Risk is tied to role and consistency.
Reward is a low-cost floor spacer with defensive upside. Next team will define his trajectory.
Hots Insight will track his signing and preseason performance.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Why did the Memphis Grizzlies waive Jordan Hawkins?
- A: The Grizzlies waived Hawkins by mutual agreement on Oct 3, 2025, citing roster crunch and salary cap considerations after entering the waiver period with 15 guaranteed contracts.
- Q: Did Jordan Hawkins play any games for Memphis?
- A: No. Hawkins was acquired from the Pelicans on Sept 8, 2025, and never played a regular season game for Memphis before being waived.
- Q: Is Jordan Hawkins considered a bust in the NBA?
- A: Opinion is split. He averaged 11.2 points per game on 39.7% 3-point shooting as a rookie in 2023-24, but his sophomore year production fell with reduced minutes and limited shot creation in New Orleans.
Extended Reading
ESPN: Sources – Grizzlies waive Jordan Hawkins weeks after Pels trade.
LetsGoWarriors: Warriors Roster Locked? Not If Jordan Hawkins Can Still Reach His Ceiling.
Fadeaway World: 3 Best Destinations For Jordan Hawkins As Two-Way Shooter Becomes Available.