The Memphis Grizzlies have traded veteran forward Taj Gibson and guard AJ Johnson to the New Orleans Pelicans. In return, Memphis receives guard Jordan Hawkins, wing Micah Peavy, a future second-round pick, and a future second-round pick swap, as reported by ESPN's Shams Charania. This deal arrives as the Grizzlies look to reset after a tough end to their season, which concluded with a 132-101 loss to the Houston Rockets on April 13, 2026. The team's recent form shows five consecutive losses.
What did the Grizzlies give up?
Taj Gibson was a late-season addition to the Memphis roster last year. He joined the team in March and appeared in only 10 games. In that limited action, Gibson averaged 3.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game. His role was primarily as a veteran presence in the frontcourt.
AJ Johnson never suited up for the Grizzlies in a regular season game. He was originally acquired as part of the earlier trade that sent forward Santi Aldama to the Dallas Mavericks. Johnson's departure represents the Grizzlies moving on from a prospect who was not in their immediate plans.
What are the Grizzlies getting in return?
Jordan Hawkins is a 6'5"guard entering his fourth NBA season. For the Pelicans, he played marginal minutes but has shown scoring potential." wing who just completed his rookie year. He also saw limited action for New Orleans. In his lone season, Peavy averaged 4.3 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.0 assist. Both Hawkins and Peavy are young players who will get a chance to compete for roles on the Grizzlies' [squad](/squad).
Why does this trade matter for Memphis?
This transaction aligns with a clear trend under General Manager Zach Kleiman. He consistently prioritizes acquiring draft capital and flexible assets for future roster moves. Trading two players who were not part of the core rotation for two younger prospects and future picks is a classic asset-play. It gives the front office more options.
The Grizzlies are clearly thinking about the long term. After finishing the season on a five-game skid, including that heavy defeat to Houston, the organization is evaluating all avenues for improvement. Adding a future second-round pick and a pick swap provides Kleiman with more ammunition for trades down the line. You can track how these new pieces fit into the team's overall [stats](/stats) as the offseason progresses.
What comes next for the Grizzlies?
The immediate focus shifts to integrating Hawkins and Peavy into the team's system. Training camp and preseason will be critical for both players to earn minutes. Memphis will also have that additional draft pick in its pocket, which could be used in a future deal or to select another young talent.
This trade is unlikely to be the last move of the offseason. The Grizzlies' front office is active, and more transactions could follow as they shape the roster for the 2026-27 campaign. Fans should keep an eye on the team's [injuries](/injuries) page and upcoming [fixtures](/fixtures) as the new season approaches. The goal will be to build a team that can break the losing streak and compete for a playoff spot.
