The New Orleans Pelicans and the Memphis Grizzlies have agreed to a four-player trade, as reported on September 8, 2026. The Pelicans will receive guard AJ Johnson and veteran forward Taj Gibson, while the Grizzlies acquire guard Jordan Hawkins, forward Micah Peavy, a future second-round pick, and a future second-round pick swap. (nba.com)
This transaction is primarily a strategic move for the Pelicans to clear salary cap space, facilitating the signing of free agent Bennedict Mathurin to a two-year, $16 million contract. By offloading Hawkins and Peavy, New Orleans saves approximately $5.7 million, positioning them below the luxury tax threshold. (fox8live.com)
Player Profiles:
AJ Johnson: Drafted 23rd overall in 2024 by the Milwaukee Bucks, the 21-year-old guard has had stints with the Washington Wizards and Dallas Mavericks. In the 2025-26 season, he averaged 3.3 points and 1.1 rebounds over 48 games. (kwsn.com)
Taj Gibson: At 41, Gibson brings 17 seasons of NBA experience. He joined the Grizzlies in February 2026, appearing in 10 games and averaging 3.4 points and 2.7 rebounds. (en.wikipedia.org)
Jordan Hawkins: Selected 14th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, the 24-year-old guard averaged 5.1 points and 1.7 rebounds in 51 games during the 2025-26 season. (kwsn.com)
Micah Peavy: A 6-foot-7 wing, Peavy averaged 4.3 points and 1.9 rebounds over 61 games in his rookie season with the Pelicans. (fox8live.com)
For the Grizzlies, this trade adds young talent and future draft assets, aligning with their rebuilding strategy. The Pelicans, meanwhile, gain financial flexibility to finalize Mathurin's signing. Reports suggest that Gibson may be waived by New Orleans to further optimize their roster and salary cap. (cbssports.com)