Report: Pelicans prefer Dejounte Murray in potential Hawks trade

The New Orleans Pelicans are expected to gauge trade interest in Brandon Ingram. The Western Conference franchise could look to trade the multi-talented wing in a bid to re-tool the roster around Zion Williamson's unique skillset. Ingram is an impressive playmaker, so trading him would leave a gap in the team's on-ball creation.

In a recent article on NOLA.com, Christian Clark noted that should New Orleans re-engage with the Atlanta Hawks over a potential trade, they would likely prefer Dejounte Murray rather than All-Star guard Trae Young.

"If the Pelicans reengaged the Hawks, they could look to pry away Murray or Young," Clark reported. "Even though Young is the more talented player, the Pelicans seem to hold more interest in Murray, league sources said. The 6-5 Murray is not as much of a defensive liability as the 6-1 Young can be. He is also on a cheaper contract; Murray will make $25.5 million next season, while Young is owed $43 million."

Atlanta is expected to trade one of its guards this summer. The Murray and Young experiment hasn't worked out as planned, and it's clear both are at their best when operating as primary ball-handlers. Murray would be the logical choice for the Pelicans due to his potential fit next to CJ McCollum, who isn't known for his point-of-attack defense. 

Murray would provide additional size, playmaking and scoring at the guard position for the Pelicans. He is also one of the most reliable perimeter defenders in the NBA. Murray played in 78 games for the Hawks this season, averaging 22.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 6.4 assists while shooting 45.9% from the field and 36.3% from three-point range. That scoring production, when coupled with his defensive skill, should help offset the potential loss of Ingram.

Of course, the Pelicans could opt not to pursue a deal with the Hawks. However, if they're looking to improve their current guard rotation and their perimeter defense, Murray would be an ideal target. He's proven to play as part of a team and be a lead ball-handler. The Pelicans would allow him to contend while growing into a role that suits his overall skillset.

Whether the Pelicans see things the same way will remain to be seen.