Dejounte Murray to the Lakers? Shams Charania gives MAJOR update about the Hawks star

Dejounte Murray in 2022 led the league in steals and became a member of the NBA All-Star Game.

Dejounte Murray to the Lakers? Shams Charania gives MAJOR update about the Hawks star

Dejounte Murray and Shams Charania (via Open Source/X)

Drawing trade interest from various league clubs, Dejounte Murray of the Atlanta Hawks began his NBA career with the San Antonio Spurs, chosen as the 29th overall pick in the first round of the 2016 NBA draft. Already a part of the NBA All-Star team in 2022, he also led the league in steals during that remarkable year.

While rumors initially pointed towards the New York Knicks’ interest, recent reports now suggest an alternative potential suitor for him—the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers, facing a setback with guard Gabe Vincent sidelined due to a knee injury and anticipated to be out for approximately six to eight weeks post-surgery, are actively seeking a replacement.

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According to NBA insider, Shams Charania of The Athletic:

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One player that I am told to keep an eye on, a potential target for the Lakers, Hawks guard Dejounte Murray. Murray still has four years, $120 million of an extension that kicks in next season, so that is a little bit better when you think of a reasonable salary to be bringing in when you already have LeBron James and Anthony Davis on your books. The Hawks's direction of course, it is in flux, they gave up multiple first-round picks and a swap to go and get Dejounte Murray a couple of summers ago from the Spurs.
Shams Charania about Dejounte Murray

Although there’s no assurance that the Hawks will be open to trading Murray to the Lakers, as the Lakers might be reluctant to part with Austin Reaves—a potential target for the Hawks—negotiations remain uncertain. In the current season, Murray is showcasing impressive stats, averaging 20.2 points per game, 4.5 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.6 steals, with a 45.8% field goal rate and a 37.4% three-point accuracy.

Dejounte Murray and the Atlanta Hawks losing run continues

On Boxing Day night, the Atlanta Hawks endured a 118-113 defeat on the road against the Chicago Bulls, further elongating their ongoing losing streak. Preceding this defeat, the Hawks had previously encountered consecutive losses, first against the Memphis Grizzlies at home and then on the road against the Miami Heat.

Dejounte Murray (Left) and Trae Young (Right)
Dejounte Murray (Left) and Trae Young (Right) (via BballRumours.com)

Bogdan Bogdanović, the Serbian guard, led the Hawks against the Bulls with 22 points, three rebounds, and 1 assist. Trae Young showcased his skills, contributing 21 points, two rebounds, and an impressive 13 assists.

On the opposing side, veteran small forward DeMar DeRozan of the Bulls dominated the overall statistics, tallying 25 points, two rebounds, and six assists. Andre Drummond played a crucial role, delivering a remarkable performance and concluding the game with 24 points, an impressive 25 rebounds, and one assist. Next for the Hawks is a home game against the Sacramento Kings.

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