Pelicans grab Jordan Hawkins with 14th overall selection

With the No. 14 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, the New Orleans Pelicans took UConn sharpshooter Jordan Hawkins.

After flashing promise as a freshman, Hawkins flourished in a starting role for the eventual national champion. The Maryland native was a lethal threat from beyond the arc, finishing 12th in the NCAA with 109 triples this past season. He averaged nearly three makes from downtown per contest and knocked down multiple 3-pointers in all but six appearances during the 2022-23 campaign.

Hawkins proved to be more than an outside threat, pulling up off the dribble in the mid-range and often drawing free-throw attempts when the defense closed out too aggressively. The former four-star recruit's constant off-ball movement and quick release forces opponents to be conscious of his whereabouts at all times.

Bio

Position: Guard
School: Connecticut
College experience: Sophomore
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 186 lbs
Wingspan: 6-foot-7
Max vertical: N/A

2022-23 stats with Connecticut

Strengths

• Smooth shooting mechanics.
• Capable of stopping on a dime and drilling attempts from distance in transition and the half court.
• A weapon in off-ball screening actions.
• Uses exceptional footwork to create space from defenders.
• Hard-working defender.

Weaknesses

• Lean frame could make him a target on defense.
• Below-average finisher at the rim; he made just 52.9% of his attempts within 4.5 feet of the basket.
• Capable playmaker but has plenty of room to improve.

NBA comparable: Richard Hamilton. Hawkins' game is very reminiscent of the former UConn legend, specifically his ability to move without the rock. The Huskies used Hawkins in a variety of off-ball actions, including dribble-handoffs, pindowns, curls, and staggers.