Image Source: X
[Saba Sports News] Dejounte Murray could be making a surprising return to the Southwest Division, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes during a Bleacher Report stream on Wednesday. Haynes mentioned the New Orleans Pelicans as a potential dark horse in acquiring the Atlanta Hawks’ standout guard Murray, stating that the Pelicans are “very much in play” for him, although no immediate transaction is expected.
Up until now, Murray, a former All-Star and a hot commodity on the trade market from the struggling Hawks, was primarily linked to the Los Angeles Lakers. However, reports have surfaced indicating the Lakers might conserve their assets for a more significant acquisition later. Despite interest from a leading Eastern Conference team, the Pelicans emerge as a compelling suitor due to their array of promising young talents and compatible contracts for a trade.
Beyond Zion Williamson, New Orleans boasts a roster filled with promising young players like Herbert Jones, Trey Murphy III, Jordan Hawkins, and Dyson Daniels, all under 25. They also have sizable contracts from CJ McCollum and Jonas Valanciunas that could facilitate a deal for Murray.
With a current standing of 29-21 and positioned seventh in the Western Conference, the Pelicans are reportedly looking to bolster their lineup. Having previously shown interest in a star center, they may now pivot towards Murray, a familiar face from his time with the San Antonio Spurs, as a strategic addition to their squad.