When Gaithersburg native Jordan Hawkins was selected by the New Orleans Pelicans in the 2023 NBA Draft, the pick was praised by pundits because of Hawkinss’ elite skill — his shooting. Early into his young professional career, he’s done just that.
The Gaithersburg High School alumnus has gotten off to a strong start in the 2023 NBA summer league in Las Vegas. Through three games, Hawkins is averaging 13.0 points per game while playing 28.3 minutes per game. He is only shooting 33.3% from the field but that is expected to improve.
In his first game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Hawkins totaled 16 points, five assists, and two steals. The University of Connecticut alumnus made multiple tough shots on the move, showcasing the elite shotmaking that had scouts excited.
Jordan Hawkins puts up 16 points in his #NBA2KSummerLeague debut!
The Lottery pick out of UConn was everywhere tonight 🔥 pic.twitter.com/zki3gVmjsV
— NBA (@NBA) July 7, 2023
But it’s been the other side of the ball where Hawkins has thrived so far in Vegas. In New Orleans’ second matchup against the Golden State Warriors, Hawkins played the second most minutes of any Pelican, and impressed with his defensive intensity.
“I’m just trying to separate myself on defense, that’s the big thing I’m focusing on right now,” Hawkins, who is averaging 1.3 steals per game, said.
Hawkins should be able to find minutes right away in New Orleans rotation due to his perimeter shooting. The 21-year-old shot 39% from deep in his sophomore season at Uconn, on extremely high volume (253 attempts).
Meanwhile, the Pelicans were 15th in the league in three point shooting (36%) and will surely look to their first-round rookie to provide some scoring punch.
“The offense is always going to be there with my shooting ability,” Hawkins said.
