Pelicans could upgrade their guard rotation with Dejounte Murray
Dejounte Murray is arguably the biggest name available at the trade deadline. The Atlanta Hawks guard has been linked with numerous teams around the league over the past few weeks.
With the deadline less than 24 hours away, a new team has emerged as a potential trade candidate.
During a recent Bleacher Report livestream, NBA Insider Chris Haynes reported that the New Orleans Pelicans are interested in adding the Hawks guard via trade.
"Sources have relayed to me that the New Orleans Pelicans are in play," Haynes said. "That's right, the New Orleans Pelicans are in play for Dejounte Murray ... The Lakers, they're still in there. But, if you look at the Pelicans, they possess multiple first-round picks that they can include in a package. Along with players that can match salaries ... There's nothing imminent at this time as it pertains to the New Orleans Pelicans and the Atlanta Hawks. But I have been told they are in play."
Murray would add size and length to the Pelicans backcourt. He would also provide an additional shot creator next to CJ McCollum. His ability to penetrate off the dribble could allow Zion Williamson to thrive as a secondary cutter, using his elite strength to bully his way through the defense off the catch.
New Orleans is currently seventh in the Western Conference and is a half a game behind the Phoenix Suns, who occupy the sixth seed and would avoid the play-in tournament. After finally getting their star trio healthy, the Pelicans have looked like a legitimate threat in their conference. Murray would likely help elevate the team into potential contenders due to his defensive ability and scoring.
The primary sticking point is whether the Pelicans are willing to meet the Hawks' lofty asking price. Yes, New Orleans will want to upgrade its roster. However, it will likely want to avoid overpaying for talent. Still, it is one of the few teams with a surplus of tradeable assets.
Even if a trade deadline deal fails to materialize, both sides could explore the framework of a potential move during the offseason. Especially if the Pelicans feel they're only one or two moves away from competing for a championship.
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