Pels Land Dejounte Murray in Trade
The New Orleans Pelicans have made a big splash early in the offseason, trading for all-star guard Dejounte Murray. In return, Larry Nance Jr, Dyson Daniels, and two first round picks from 2025 and 2027 go to the Atlanta Hawks. Analysts are majorly naming the trade in favor of the Pelicans.
While most Pelicans fans knew that some type of big offseason move was coming, this was certainly not what they had expected, amid all the rumors surrounding all-star forward Brandon Ingram.
With another star like Murray now on the roster, don't be surprised to see the Pelicans possibly keep Ingram into the season in hopes to find common ground or the best possible landing spot.
The Pelicans were in need of a guard that can run the offense and score on his own, and Murray is just that guy, averaging 22.5 points to go along with six assists and five rebounds a game.
The Pelicans went 0-24 when trailing in the fourth quarter and 2-14 last season in close games during the 2023-24 season. We're hoping to see a drastic shift now that the Pels have a great shooter in the clutch. Murray was seen hitting some big shots and buzzer beaters last season, securing huge wins over dominant teams like the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics.
Despite this trade helping their guard play and late game offense, getting rid of Nance leaves a gaping hole for the Pelicans as it comes to rebounding and interior defense. With longtime center Jonas Valanciunas set to hit free agency, the Pelicans need to shift their focus on finding a reliable big man that can pair well with Zion Williamson. If Ingram continues to be in trade rumors, they can use his contract and star power to get a big-name player that fills that void.
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