Pelicans Jordan Hawkins 'Blessed' With All-Star Weekend Appearance
Pelicans rookie Jordan Hawkins walked the ball up the court and, with a couple of dribbles, launched a deep three-point attempt. It swished in. Jamal Crawford, a former three-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award winner, did the play-by-play announcing for the Panini NBA Rising Stars Game and was very complimentary of the Pelicans rookie. During the telecast, Crawford called Hawkins "a natural bucket. He is a natural scorer. You can see the way he gets to his spots."
Later during a timeout, Hawkins Rising Stars coach Jalen Rose addressed the team with his hand on Hawkins' shoulder when he said, "You got the potential to be playing on Sunday (All-Star game.)" Hawkins' team won the Rising Stars challenge, with the New Orleans rookie scoring 12 points, grabbing six rebounds, and dishing four assists in the two games he played. He committed zero turnovers on the night. Despite the praise he receives for his play, Hawkins never diminishes the opportunity he has.
Feb 2, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard Jordan Hawkins (24) shoots over San Antonio Spurs forward Doug McDermott (17) during the first half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports
"My favorite thing about this season is the ability to play in the NBA," Hawkins told reporters before the game. "Just having the chance to play in the NBA and even the G League, it's been really fun, and I'm blessed." His outside shooting ability has certainly been a blessing for the New Orleans Pelicans. Hawkins is tied for second in the NBA for most three-point shots made (94) amongst rookies.
His playing time has mysteriously dwindled in the past month. Hawkins had one game in February playing more than ten minutes after having just three games in January when he didn't. In the last two games, he's been a healthy scratch from the lineup. His minutes may uptick again with the recent injury to Dyson Daniels. Daniels tore his meniscus in his knee, and the team will evaluate him in four weeks. Regardless of his role, Hawkins approaches the game to stay ready and play.
"It's a blessing to be here (All-Star weekend) in the first place and to be introduced as a Rising star...I'm still locked in, but I'm going to use this opportunity to get better," Hawkins said. His development is being helped by former NBA player and Pelicans assistant coach Corey Brewer, who calls Hawkins a "winner." That winner's mentality is present in Hawk regardless of playing one minute or all 48. A mark of a player who truly feels blessed to be in this position.
