It seems like one can't scroll through a social media app without seeing countless Dejounte Murray to Lakers reports or stories. LeBron James is undoubtedly one of the greatest small forwards in NBA history, but he can also be a huge burden for a GM.
The Los Angeles Lakers have always been accustomed to greatness, with some of the best players ever to don the purple and gold. That's why most of the Lakers' trade goals are also unrealistic, and the trade offers their fans and insiders come up with are often fake.
However, it looks like they might be able to steal away the Atlanta Hawks this time. According to most Hawks trade rumors, Murray is likely on his way out, and the Lakers have reportedly separated themselves from the rest of the pack in their betting.
Murray is clearly a very good player and should have a strong market for his services, especially if he is about to become available. But is he the man the Lakers need to turn things around? More importantly, should they go? All in To get him? Let's break it down.
Dejounte Murray to Lakers: Should they draft him?
Murray has opted out this season. He's averaging 21.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game, but those numbers have gone up since he became a potential trade candidate. We also know he's a client of Rich Paul and Klutch Sports, so the connection with LeBron James and Anthony Davis is definitely there.
The Lakers have been in the market for a star-caliber guard for a long time. The Russell Westbrook experiment was a failure, and they couldn't land Kyrie Irving, so they turned to D'Angelo Russell, who has gotten mixed reviews so far.
Russell has left a lot to be desired in the playoffs, while Murray has proven to be a scorer, even knocking off back-to-back winners this season. Then again, Russell has also averaged nearly 28 points per game since returning to the starting lineup, so this may not be the time to get rid of him.
Even if Russell's numbers are a fluke, going all-in for Murray comes with some risks. He has some well-documented personality and coachability issues, and the press won't take him lightly in Los Angeles. If he's going back and forth with fans and haters on social media, how will he handle the pressure of being a Laker?
Murray has also not played defense since leaving the San Antonio Spurs. He used to lock down players on that side of the floor, but he seems to have abandoned that to become a better scorer. This is the last thing the Lakers need at this moment.
People also need to consider the fact that the Lakers do not have an attractive or valuable trade asset. As much as Lakers fans think the rest of the league is obligated to take their scraps and spare parts, the reality is that you're not going to get a star player in exchange for Jalen Hood-Schinno, Scottie Pippen Jr. and 2029. Late first round pick.
The Lakers are high on Austin Reeves, but they won't be able to acquire Murray without parting ways with him and some other valuable rotation pieces. Reaves may not be a star, but he has a reasonable contract, and you need depth in the playoffs.
To sum up the question and answer it, yes, the Lakers should pursue Murray, but only at the right price. His skills won't solve many of the problems Darvin Ham faces, and they should prioritize other things instead.
