New NBA Trade Rumors on Pelicans' Jordan Hawkins Talks With Grizzlies Amid Free Agency

The New Orleans Pelicans are gauging the trade market for guard Jordan Hawkins, according to The Stein Line's Marc Stein and Jake Fischer.

The NBA insiders reported Wednesday the Memphis Grizzlies "have registered some interest in taking on Hawkins."

The 2023 first-round pick is entering the final guaranteed year of his rookie contract, and he'll earn a little more than $7 million for the 2026-27 season.

The Pelicans are $10.4 million under the first apron of the luxury tax. Trading Hawkins for draft compensation wouldn't save a ton of money but would give New Orleans a little more wiggle room. The team could place more value in freeing up a roster spot if it's a straight player-for-picks swap.

Hawkins may benefit from a change of scenery as well after his playing time lessened last season. Appearing in 51 games, he averaged 5.1 points and shot 34.8 percent from beyond the arc in 13.6 minutes per contest.

The Grizzlies are in the midst of a rebuild after trading Ja Morant to the Portland Trail Blazers, having already jettisoned Jaren Jackson Jr. ahead of the 2026 trade deadline. Now is the time for them to give younger players a chance and see who sticks.

Were he to join Memphis' rotation, Hawkins might be able to carve out a regular reserve role behind Cedric Coward at shooting guard or Jaylen Wells on the wing.

Wherever he's playing on opening night, the 24-year-old needs to be able to showcase his skills ahead of his restricted free agency next summer.