The Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly been working on trying to get a Dejounte Murray trade done for weeks. Yet talks have stalled due to the organization not having the sort of trade package that would appeal to the Atlanta Hawks. However, the recent strong play of D’Angelo Russell could play a major role in a deal finally getting done.
The Los Angeles Lakers were ‘close’ on Dejounte Murray trade two weeks ago
The Lakers have passed the midway point of this season a team fighting to stay above .500 and in the chase for a spot in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. Considering the talent on the roster and the money they handed out this summer to keep together a team that went to the Western Conference Finals last year, their results this season have been highly disappointing.
That is why there have been rumblings for weeks that the organization will make a major trade to shake things up and help them build some momentum for the stretch run. The player who has been constantly linked to the team is Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray. However, recent reports have suggested that their best efforts have failed and they might need a third team to get involved to get a trade done.
The belief around the league is the Los Angeles Lakers want to include D’Angelo Russell in a trade, but the Hawks are balking at the idea due to a preference to get more back in return, as well as an indifference to the money left on his contract.
On Monday, The Athletic’s Lakers reporter Jovan Buha revealed that the two teams were actually “close” on a Murray trade that featured Russell. He also claimed talks are expected to pick up again soon and that Russell being involved is the only way a trade gets done since the organization is unwilling to part with Austin Reaves — another potential player who could be involved.
The deadline being just over a week away will certainly intensify talks, however, what should further bring hope a trade gets done is the impressive play of Russell in recent weeks. Since being placed back into the starting lineup eight games ago, Russell has averaged 27.5 points, 6.4 assists, 52.3% from the field, and 54.2% from the 3-point line per game.
His strong play could help persuade Atlanta to finally okay a deal that brings them the point guard or gives a third team more reason to jump in to land the 27-year-old. Russell has a player option for next season left on his contract.