The Memphis Grizzlies have waived guard Jordan Hawkins, continuing their offseason roster trimming. The Grizzlies are now down to 17 standard contracts and must cut two more players before the season starts.
Waiving Jordan Hawkins represents another step in the Grizzlies' ongoing roster evaluation. The team originally got Hawkins, Micah Peavy, a second-round pick, and a pick swap in a deal that sent out veterans Taj Gibson and Larry Nance Jr. Hawkins was a first-round selection known for his elite shooting at UConn, but that skill hasn't fully translated to the NBA level. ESPN reported the sides mutually agreed to part ways so Hawkins could seek a two-way contract opportunity elsewhere. This follows the earlier release of D'Angelo Russell, who never suited up for Memphis.
The Grizzlies currently hold 17 standard contracts. The league mandate is 15 for the regular season, so two more cuts are coming. Micah Peavy and Kris Murray, who arrived in the Ja Morant trade, appear to be candidates on the bubble. Walter Clayton Jr., another former first-rounder acquired from Utah in the Jaren Jackson Jr. Deal, seems safer for now. But General Manager Zach Kleiman could also pursue a consolidation trade to package players. It's all part of a rebuilding process where the team is taking calculated risks on reclamation projects.
These roster moves happen against a backdrop of recent on-court struggles. The Grizzlies' form has been tough, with four consecutive losses to close the 2025-26 season. You can review the full schedule and results on our schedule page.
Head coach Taylor Jenkins and the front office are clearly focused on the future. They are sifting through available talent to find pieces that fit their long-term vision. Letting go of Hawkins so quickly shows they are willing to make swift judgments. The coming weeks will reveal which other players make the final cut as Memphis prepares for training camp. The focus remains on building a competitive team around their core for the next campaign.
