Home Basketball A second Hawks player might be in the Lakers’ sights if they deal for Dejounte Murray

A second Hawks player might be in the Lakers’ sights if they deal for Dejounte Murray

Basketball — 01/16/2024

The deadline for NBA trades is quickly approaching on February 8th. As they did this time last year, the Los Angeles Lakers are certain to be involved in trade talks. Rumоr has it that the Lakers’ front staff and general manager Rоb Pelinka are interested in Hawks player Dejounte Murray.

Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reports that the Lakers are considering trading for Clint Capela, a seasoned big man for the Atlanta Hawks, in exchange for Murray.

The Lakers have reportedly discussed the possibility of getting both Murray and Capela from the Hawks, according to league sources cited by Siegel. In contrast to Atlanta’s unwavering desire for third-year guard Austin Reaves, the Lakers have maintained their position of not including the 25-year-old in any trade talks. This includes any discussions about trades that the Lakers have had with clubs other than the Hawks.

The issue that has persisted is Austin Reaves. The third-year guard is well-liked by both the club and the fanbase, thanks to his meteoric rise to fаme since signing with the Lakers as an undrafted rookie. If negotiations are to advance, the Hawks must abandon their intention to sell Murray for Reaves.

Still, the Lakers would be very fortunate to acquire Murray and Capela. Along with LeBron James and Anthony Davis forming a formidable frontcourt three, Murray would provide Los Angeles with the perimeter point-of-аttаck defender they desperately need.

If the Hawks are interested in other young players, the Lakers may try to entice them. Since being traded to the Lakers at the 2023 trade deadline, Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt have both performed admirably. D’Angelo Russell is rumored to be a trade candidate as well, though his skill set is considered to be too similar to Trae Young’s.

When it comes to finalizing deals, Pelinka is a master. The Lakers and the Hawks may be able to come to an agreement before the trade deadline if there is mutual desire. Each club is looking to get back on track this season, and they each have players that could spark interest from the other. One of the two teams, the Lakers or the Hawks, will eventually cave in.