Hello hoops heads! Here's the latest in NBA trade rumors!
NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers landing star "unrealistic"
After repeatedly being linked to Atlanta Hawks star Dejounte Murray, the Los Angeles Lakers no longer appear to be the frontrunners to acquire him. That latest development—as reported by Marc Stein—perhaps isn't all that surprising considering how well Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell has played of late.
Little-to-no trade dialogue between the Hawks and the Lakers regarding Dejounte Murray; per @TheSteinLine
— BASKETBALL ON 𝕏 (@BasketballOnX) January 28, 2024
“one source briefed on the talks termed the idea of Murray landing with the Lakers before the deadline, as of this Sunday, as "unrealistic."
[via https://t.co/cuxPTaGHOP[ pic.twitter.com/gTXGOLtkKD
Over his last 10 games, he's averaging over 23 points and 5 assists per game, with his play suddenly calling into question the need for the Lakers to trade for Murray.
Especially since they may have to give up two first-round picks in a deal to acquire him. With the Murray deal on the back burner, Los Angeles could look to make smaller deals that wouldn't cost them multiple first-round picks. On the other hand, it could be grandstanding on the Lakers part with them wanting to appear less desperate to the Hawks and they aren't with Russell's play.
That probably won't lower Atlanta's asking price of two first-round and a starting-caliber player, because they could get that from another team. Since the Lakers have been linked to several other players, it seems more likely that they are looking elsewhere for help. With less than 2 weeks until the trade deadline, we'll soon know what they decide to do.