According to NBA insider Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, any framework for a Dejounte Murray trade between the Atlanta Hawks and Los Angeles Lakers would involve D’Angelo Russell.
However, that would be contingent on Russell being flipped to a third team from the Hawks.
“Any framework for a Murray trade to the Lakers would likely involve guard D’Angelo Russell, league sources told HoopsHype,” Scotto wrote. “However, that would be contingent on Russell being flipped to a third team from Atlanta in the process.”
The Lakers are seriously interested in acquiring Murray, who has the same agent (Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group) as LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Murray is averaging 21.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1.4 steals and 0.3 blocks this season while shooting 47.1% from the field, 38.3% from beyond the arc and 82.5% from the free-throw line. The one-time All-Star is making $17.7 million.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dejounte Murray, Atlanta Hawks, D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Russell is averaging 15.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.5 blocks this season while shooting 47.3% overall, 40.1% from 3 and 77.2% from the foul line. The Ohio State product is making $17.3 million.
The Lakers (21-21) are in 10th place in the Western Conference standings, while the Hawks (17-23) are in 10th place in the Eastern Conference standings. Murray, who signed a four-year, $114 million extension with the Hawks in July, is expected to be traded before the February 8 trade deadline.
The Lakers have to decide if moving Russell for Murray would move the needle for them. Russell has played well since being re-inserted into the starting lineup, averaging 27.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, 5.7 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks over his last three games. He’s a better shooter than Murray, but Murray is a better defender than Russell.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dejounte Murray, Atlanta Hawks, D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
It will be fascinating to see what the Lakers do. According to NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, LAL is looking for speed and athleticism at the trade deadline.
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