The New Orleans Pelicans have made a significant move by adding Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray to their backcourt. In exchange, they are trading forwards Larry Nance Jr. and E.J. Liddell, guard Dyson Daniels, a 2025 first-round pick via the Los Angeles Lakers, and the least favorable of a 2027 first-round pick from either the Milwaukee Bucks or their own to the Hawks for the 27-year-old Murray. This trade has the potential to shake up the dynamics of both teams and provide new opportunities for player development and team performance.
Dejounte Murray, who just completed his second season in Atlanta, has been a standout performer for the Hawks. He averaged a career-high 22.5 points in the 2023-24 season while also recording a career-best 201 3-pointers. Murray has shown versatility on the court by averaging 6.4 assists and 5.3 rebounds, demonstrating his ability to contribute across multiple aspects of the game. His partnership with fellow star Trae Young in the Hawks’ backcourt has been notable, although the team did not achieve success in the playoffs as initially hoped.
In his previous role as the lead guard with the San Antonio Spurs, Murray displayed impressive stats, averaging 21.1 points, 9.2 assists, 8.3 rebounds, and a league-leading 2.0 steals per game in the 2021-22 season. His transition to Atlanta has seen significant growth in his 3-point shooting, with Murray’s accuracy improving over his time with the Hawks compared to his tenure with the Spurs. His contract extension with Atlanta, signed last offseason, reflects the team’s confidence in his abilities, with significant earnings for the upcoming seasons.
Impact on the New Orleans Pelicans
The acquisition of Dejounte Murray presents a valuable opportunity for the New Orleans Pelicans to enhance their performance in crucial game moments. Murray’s presence on the court during clutch situations is particularly noteworthy, as he has demonstrated the ability to make significant plays when the pressure is high. His track record of hitting go-ahead shots and contributing defensively makes him a valuable asset for the Pelicans, who have struggled in key moments in previous seasons.
The Pelicans’ recent struggles in clutch games, with a poor offensive rating and net rating, highlight the need for a player of Murray’s caliber who can turn the tide in crucial situations. His statistics from the previous season, including being among the top players in clutch field goals and sharing unique records with players like Stephen Curry and Nikola Jokic, indicate his impact on the game. Murray’s consistency in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking makes him a well-rounded player that can elevate the Pelicans’ performance.
While the focus of the trade is on Dejounte Murray, it’s crucial to consider the players that the Pelicans are giving up in exchange. Dyson Daniels, the No. 8 pick in the 2022 NBA draft, has shown promise in his defensive abilities and overall potential. His contributions in steals and defensive play indicate a bright future, although the Pelicans have opted to include him in this trade.
Larry Nance Jr., acquired in a previous trade with the CJ McCollum deal, has battled injuries during his time with the Pelicans. Despite his challenges, Nance has provided valuable minutes as a backup and has been a reliable presence on the court. E.J. Liddell, a star from Ohio State, faced setbacks due to injuries but has shown glimpses of his potential in limited appearances. The trade marks the end of the Murray-Young partnership in Atlanta, signaling a new chapter for both teams.
The trade between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Atlanta Hawks involving Dejounte Murray carries implications for both teams. Murray’s addition brings a new dimension to the Pelicans’ backcourt, offering a combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess. The impact of this trade will unfold as the teams integrate new players and adjust their strategies for the upcoming season. As fans await the on-court performances and outcomes of this trade, the potential for growth and success is evident for both the Pelicans and the Hawks.