Pelicans Trade for Dejounte Murray

The New Orleans Pelicans have acquired guard Dejounte Murray from the Atlanta Hawks in a significant trade aimed at bolstering their backcourt. In return, the Hawks will receive Larry Nance Jr., Dyson Daniels, a 2025 first-round pick (via the Lakers), and a 2027 first-round pick (least favorable of the Bucks-Pelicans). Murray, who averaged 22.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.4 assists last season, is expected to provide much-needed offensive and defensive strength to the Pelicans. The trade reflects New Orleans' commitment to building a competitive team around core players like Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum. For the Hawks, this move suggests a shift towards focusing on Trae Young as their primary backcourt leader. The transaction has also impacted both teams' salary caps, with the Pelicans' cap hit increasing to approximately $227 million and the Hawks' cap decreasing to around $173.7 million.