Dejounte Murray is arguably the most important title obtainable on the commerce deadline. The Atlanta Hawks guard has been linked with numerous teams across the league over the previous few weeks.
With the deadline lower than 24 hours away, a brand new group has emerged as a possible commerce candidate.
Throughout a latest Bleacher Report livestream, NBA Insider Chris Haynes reported that the New Orleans Pelicans are involved in including the Hawks guard by way of commerce.
“Sources have relayed to me that the New Orleans Pelicans are in play,” Haynes stated. “That is proper, the New Orleans Pelicans are in play for Dejounte Murray … The Lakers, they’re nonetheless in there. However, in the event you take a look at the Pelicans, they possess a number of first-round picks that they will embody in a package deal. Together with gamers that may match salaries … There’s nothing imminent presently because it pertains to the New Orleans Pelicans and the Atlanta Hawks. However I’ve been informed they’re in play.”
Murray would add dimension and size to the Pelicans backcourt. He would additionally present a further shot creator subsequent to CJ McCollum. His potential to penetrate off the dribble may enable Zion Williamson to thrive as a secondary cutter, utilizing his elite power to bully his method by way of the protection off the catch.
New Orleans is at the moment seventh in the Western Conference and is a half a recreation behind the Phoenix Suns, who occupy the sixth seed and would keep away from the play-in match. After lastly getting their star trio wholesome, the Pelicans have appeared like a authentic menace of their convention. Murray would seemingly assist elevate the group into potential contenders as a consequence of his defensive potential and scoring.
The first sticking level is whether or not the Pelicans are prepared to satisfy the Hawks’ lofty asking worth. Sure, New Orleans will wish to improve its roster. Nonetheless, it’s going to seemingly wish to keep away from overpaying for expertise. Nonetheless, it is without doubt one of the few groups with a surplus of tradeable belongings.
Even when a commerce deadline deal fails to materialize, each side may discover the framework of a possible transfer through the offseason. Particularly if the Pelicans really feel they’re just one or two strikes away from competing for a championship.