The New Orleans Pelicans have made a significant move by adding Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray to their backcourt in a trade deal. The Pelicans are sending forwards Larry Nance Jr. and E.J. Liddell, guard Dyson Daniels, a 2025 first-round pick from 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 in exchange for the 27-year-old Murray. Murray, who just completed his second season in Atlanta, had an impressive season with the Hawks, averaging a career-high 22.5 points and making a career-best 201 3-pointers.
Murray’s Performance and Stats
During the 2023-24 season, Dejounte Murray also averaged 6.4 assists and 5.3 rebounds while sharing the backcourt with fellow star Trae Young. His on-court performance has been notable, solidifying him as a key player for any team. In fact, while playing for the San Antonio Spurs in the 2021-22 season, Murray averaged 21.1 points, 9.2 assists, 8.3 rebounds, and a league-leading 2.0 steals per game. Since his move to Atlanta, Murray has seen significant improvement in his 3-point shooting, making 334 3-pointers in his two seasons with the Hawks.
Dejounte Murray’s four-year, $114 million extension signed with Atlanta last offseason has not yet come into effect. He is set to earn $25.3 million for the upcoming season, with a player option for $31.3 million in 2027-28. The Pelicans, who earlier exercised the team options on Jose Alvarado and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, are now operating close to the first apron due to this trade. With 12 players under contract, the Pelicans are slightly below the tax and first apron limits.
Impact on Pelicans’ Performance
The addition of Dejounte Murray to the Pelicans’ roster is expected to address some of the team’s shortcomings from the previous season. The Pelicans struggled in clutch moments, often failing to close games effectively. Murray, known for his ability to perform in pressure situations, had 40 clutch field goals last season, which ranked him fifth in the NBA. His presence is likely to improve the team’s performance in crucial moments, with his offensive prowess and shot-making abilities.
Dejounte Murray’s skill set and versatility on the court have earned him comparisons to some of the league’s elite players. He joins Luka Doncic as the only players to average 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in each of the last three seasons. Murray’s defensive capabilities have also been recognized, as he was named to the All-Defensive Team in 2018. Moreover, he is the only player to record at least 100 steals in each of the past five seasons, showcasing his consistency and defensive impact.
Outgoing Players
As part of the trade deal, the Pelicans are parting ways with Larry Nance Jr., E.J. Liddell, and Dyson Daniels. Nance, who joined the Pelicans in a previous trade, faced injury setbacks during his time with the team but provided valuable contributions as a backup center. Liddell, a rising star from Ohio State, suffered a significant injury that sidelined him for a season, limiting his impact with the Pelicans. Daniels, the No. 8 pick in the 2022 NBA draft, showed promise on the defensive end and contributed to the team’s depth in the backcourt.
The acquisition of Dejounte Murray by the New Orleans Pelicans marks a significant move for the team, adding a proven and talented guard to their roster. Murray’s on-court performance, versatility, and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations are expected to enhance the Pelicans’ competitiveness and address some of their weaknesses from the previous season. The trade deal signifies a strategic approach by the Pelicans management to strengthen their backcourt and build a winning team for the future.
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