Chicago Bulls lead front office executive Bryson Graham is not pursuing a reunion with recently waived guard Jordan Hawkins, a source with ties to his New Orleans Pelicans past. Graham's focus remains on the Bulls' immediate roster construction as the team looks to stabilize.
Graham's recent acquisition of veteran shooter Buddy Hield, another former Pelicans player, shows his willingness to tap familiar connections, but Hawkins does not fit the current plan.
Guard Jordan Hawkins became a free agent on Friday after the Memphis Grizzlies waived him. Hawkins was originally selected 14th overall by the New Orleans Pelicans in the 2023 NBA Draft, a period when Bryson Graham was part of that front office. The move made Hawkins available for any team to claim, but the Bulls have shown no interest.
Hawkins entered the league with a strong pedigree after helping the University of Connecticut Huskies win the 2023 NCAA national championship as a sophomore starter. His value was built on being a dynamic movement shooter who could space the floor. That specific skill has not translated consistently to the NBA level through his first few seasons.
Bryson Graham's decision to look beyond Hawkins signals a clear priority on fit and proven production. The Bulls' backcourt rotation and overall scoring needs are being addressed with other players. Bringing in Buddy Hield, who began his career with the Pelicans in 2016, was a move for immediate veteran shooting.
Hawkins, while talented, has not yet established himself as a reliable NBA contributor. For a Bulls team trying to climb out of a rough patch, adding a project player isn't the primary goal. The front office is likely evaluating options that can help sooner.
The 149 points allowed to Dallas is a season-high defensive low point for the squad.
This context makes Graham's roster decisions more urgent. The connection to Hawkins was there, but the basketball fit was not. The executive's history with New Orleans gives him intimate knowledge of these players, allowing him to make informed calls on who can help the Chicago Bulls now. His choice to pass on Hawkins, despite the available history, shows a disciplined approach to building this roster for the present challenges.
