Kofi Inkoom
The Atlanta Hawks are trading Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans as reported by Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.
In return, the Pelicans will send a 2025 first-round pick (from the Lakers), the less favorable of their own or Milwaukee’s 2027 first-round pick, Larry Nance Jr., Dyson Daniels and additional assets to the Hawks. The Pelicans are also sending EJ Liddell to Atlanta as a part of the deal, Andrew Lopez of ESPN notes.
The Hawks acquired Dejounte Murray in 2022 to pair with star Trae Young, sacrificing multiple first-round picks to the San Antonio Spurs. Despite Murray’s solid performance, averaging 21.5 points per game over 152 appearances, the team struggled, finishing 77-87 with just one playoff appearance.
By mid-season 2023/24, with the Hawks underperforming, Murray’s name surfaced in trade talks. Though the Lakers were a potential destination, the Hawks decided not to trade him at that time.
For the Pelicans, acquiring Murray signifies their intent to rise in the Western Conference standings after a playoff appearance this season. Murray will enhance their offense, particularly in close games, where they struggled last season.
However, the trade complicates negotiations with Brandon Ingram on a contract extension, especially as they approach the luxury tax threshold.
Again, for Atlanta, trading Murray suggests they’re open to offers for most of their roster, excluding Jalen Johnson and Zaccharie Risacher. This openness might also hint at the potential end of Trae Young’s tenure with the Hawks, as they entertain trade offers for their star guard.