With the pressure building up for the upcoming NBA trade deadline on February 8, 2024, the Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly set their sights on a significant roster upgrade.
As the Lakers are trying to receive some benefit from this high-stakes trade, there are rumors that the team is ‘heavily’ interested in acquiring Atlanta Hawks’ guard, Dejounte Murray. However, the proposed trade, which would involve sending the Lakers’ guard D’Angelo Russell to Atlanta, has become an obstacle as the Hawks seem to be not interested in Russell.
Lakers ‘Heavily’ interested in Dejounte Murray move
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of the ESPN, the Los Angeles Lakers and Atlanta Hawks were engaged in “pretty extensive conversations” about a potential trade. The proposed deal would see the Lakers parting ways with their star guard, D’Angelo Russell, along with a 2029 first-round pick and a pick swap.
However, the Hawks’ lack of interest in Russell has prompted them to search for a third team to facilitate the trade, with Atlanta seeking an expiring contract. The Lakers’ keen interest in Murray is quite understandable, given his impressive performances this season, averaging 21.1 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.9 rebounds over 42 games.
Murray’s agility and defensive prowess, seems to be a perfect match for the Lakers’ desire to put in more speed and athleticism into their backcourt. Moreover, Murray’s forthcoming four-year, $114 million contract extension makes him a prime candidate for a trade.
The 27-year-old guard’s ability to contribute substantially on both ends of the floor makes him a very attractive target for the Lakers, who are looking to boost their roster to support their veteran stars, namely LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Hawks are unwilling to sign D’Angelo Russell
As the NBA trade rumors keep on swirling around the corner, the Los Angeles Lakers’ pursuit of the Atlanta Hawks’ guard, Dejounte Murray has emerged to be a captivating subplot. However, due to the Lakers’ reluctance to part with Austin Reaves, coupled with their limited trade assets, creates a seemingly more of a complicated matter.
A deal that focusses on D’Angelo Russell, a 2029 first-round pick, and a pick swap has been proposed, but the Hawks’ disinterest in Russell demands the involvement of a third team. Accordingly to a few reports, the three team trade may occur between the Lakers, Hawks, and the Brooklyn Nets, and trade talks have begun, with speculations of sending Dejounte Murray to LA, D’Angelo Russell to Brooklyn, and Spencer Dinwiddie + LAL’s 29’ 1st round pick to Atlanta.
Moreover, several factors create hesitation for the Hawks to acquire Russell, as it does not align well with Atlanta’s apparent strategy to gain financial flexibility for future roster moves. Although, for the season, Russell has averaged 16.9 points, 6.2 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game, his fit alongside the Hawks’ prominent superstar Trae Young raises questions about their compatibility. Additionally, Russell has a player option for the next season worth $18.6 million, further contributing to the Hawks’ limited interest in acquiring the guard.
With this current scenario, where do you think Dejounte Murray would land up? Or are there any chances of him resigning with the Hawks?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments down below!
