Pelicans Rookie Predicted For A Historic Season

New Orleans, LA -- All eyes in the NBA Rookie class may focus on the San Antonio Spurs' phenom Victor Wembenyama. However, New Orleans' rookie sharpshooter Jordan Hawkins could be primed and ready to have a historic shooting season.

According to most draft insiders, Hawkins was considered the best pure shooter. During his second year at UConn, he made over 100 three-pointers, shooting at an impressive 38.8% from beyond the arc. Some predict that he will perform even more remarkably in the NBA. The market is mixed on Hawkins having a historic rookie season, though data from bonus registration shows a great year for Hawkins will lead to great success for the Pelicans.

NBA Draft Writer Arya Chawla

forecasts a historic year for Hawkins, expecting he'll be just the second rookie in NBA history with 200 made three-point shots. Last season, Keegan Murray became the first rookie to make 200 shots from beyond the arc. A year later, former UConn Husky Jordan Hawkins has the best shot to join him. Arguably the best shooter in the 2023 Draft Class, Hawkins finds himself with a role on a New Orleans Pelicans team with playoff hopes.

After burying over 100 triples en route to a National Championship, the 6-foot-5 sharpshooter can play off of Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and C.J. McCollum, three players who will create plenty of looks for the rookie. The opportunity to play alongside multiple capable playmakers gives Hawkins the edge in this regard as opposed to players such as Toronto Raptors' forward Gradey Dick.

The 200 mark is rare for the Pelicans franchise. Before last season, the team hadn't had a player make 200 threes since Ryan Anderson in the 2012-2013 season. Trey Murphy III and CJ McCollum made over 200 three-point shots last year. Despite their performance, the Pelicans were second to last in the NBA in perimeter shooting.

To keep defenses honest, New Orleans must pose a threat with their outside shooting. This is where Hawkins comes in. With his impressive skills, he will be able to showcase his abilities. The rookie's production will be needed as rising star Trey Murphy III's meniscus injury will sideline him for 10 to 12 weeks. Hawkins averaged 6.3 attempts from beyond the arc in college and would have been second on the Pelicans' statistics report in 2022-23.