Some NBA trades are simple. Two teams find mutual needs that they can help each other fill. They may even swap a player for another player.
Other deals get a little more complicated. A team may have a player that another team covets. That team may have the assets to match their trade value. Still, they could struggle to make the money work. That team may have a player who the other team doesn’t want.
A third team can simplify matters. For example, it seems like the Los Angeles Lakers are closing in a trade for Dejounte Murray of the Atlanta Hawks. Problematically, the Hawks don’t want D’Angelo Russell. Now, it’s being reported that the Lakers are seeking a third team to take on Russell. Here are three teams that we think could take a look at him.
New Orleans Pelicans
Understandably, the Hawks wouldn’t want Russell. They don’t need a point guard. They’re just realizing that trying to pair Trae Young with another point guard doesn’t work – that’s how we got here.
The Pelicans could use a point guard. They’re desperate for one. Russell could be perfect. The Pelicans don’t need a high-usage superstar. With Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum on the roster, they merely need someone who can organize the offense.
This feels like a perfect fit to us. With that said, everyone won’t see eye-to-eye. If the Pelicans don’t like Russell, could another team have an interest in him?
Chicago Bulls
The Bulls need a point guard. With that said, they need a lot more than one player. This team is mired in mediocrity in 2023-24. Perhaps that’s why the Bulls are widely seen as potential sellers ahead of the upcoming trade deadline.
With that said, whispers from this front office have indicated that they may be interested in buying instead. Whether that’s advisable is a matter of debate. Still, if the Bulls refuse to rebuild, adding Russell would plug a hole in their rotation.
On the other hand, the Bulls may come to their senses. If this organization finally decides to rebuild, it may finally sell at this year’s deadline. Is there a more likely buyer who could use Russell?
Brooklyn Nets
The Bulls ought to rebuild. They can mine the draft lottery for top-end talent for years to come. That’s not an option for the Nets. They owe control of their draft to the Houston Rockets through to 2027.
We’ve been hearing all sorts of rumors about the Nets. One day, they’re expected to be sellers. The next, they’re going to be big buyers. Perhaps they should split the difference. The Nets could target a playmaker who won’t force them to give up a tremendous amount of assets.
Russell fits the bill. Moreover, he’s familiar with the organization. The Nets could use his playmaking touch, and they won’t have to fork over assets to bring him in. They could be the third team that makes a trade between the Lakers and the Hawks simple.
