When the Atlanta Hawks acquired Dejounte Murray, there were questions. Sure, his elite point-of-attack defense could cover for Trae Young. How will these two ball-dominant NBA stars fit in the same lineups?
It seems that we have our answer – poorly. This is not working. Murray’s defense has even slipped. There are rumors of discord in the locker room. The Hawks only acquired Murray, but it already feels like he may be on the move.
That’s unfortunate for Atlanta. They surrendered three first-round picks for Murray. Since then, the market has changed, and his defense has slipped. They won’t get the same return back for him. Could they send him to the Brooklyn Nets?
NBA Trade Proposal: Brooklyn Nets Land Atlanta Hawks’ Dejounte Murray
Atlanta Hawks Receive: F Cameron Johnson, 2027 First-Round Pick (PHX via BKN)
Brooklyn Nets Receive: G Dejounte Murray
When the Brooklyn Nets acquired James Harden, there were fewer questions. The Nets already had Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Durant doesn’t need the ball, and Irving is a hybrid on-ball and off-ball player.
Harden’s playmaking felt like the missing piece. It wasn’t. The Nets made one disappointing playoff run and collapsed shortly after. Now, they’re left in an interesting position.
The Nets have a decent collection of talent, but they’re short on playmaking. As a result, they’ve had a mediocre season. What’s the solution?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dejounte Murray, Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets Updates
Recent rumors have suggested that the Nets will be sellers at the trade deadline. That’s one option. Could they pivot and acquire a primary playmaker?
Why The Brooklyn Nets Do The Deal
Murray’s defensive slippage has been interesting. It shouldn’t be a result of an increased offensive workload. After all, Murray was putting up career numbers in San Antonio when he forged his defensive reputation. Could it be that he’s simply unhappy in Atlanta?
Moreover, he’s not the only player whose stopping powers look drained after changing teams. Mikal Bridges was one of the best defensive wings in the league on the Phoenix Suns, but he’s been subpar in Brooklyn.
This feels like the result of an increased workload. Bridges is Brooklyn’s first option – he doesn’t have the energy to thrive on both ends. This deal could help both get back to their previous form.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dejounte Murray, Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets Updates
Murray would take an offensive burden off of Bridges, and he should be happier separated from Young. In the process, the Nets should become a much better team.
What does this deal do for Atlanta?
Why The Atlanta Hawks Do The Deal
Johnson is anything but ball-dominant. He doesn’t need the rock to succeed. He’s one of the better floor spacers in the NBA, and he’s a solid defender as well. In other words, he’s the perfect player to put alongside Young.
That’s not to say that this deal makes the Hawks better. It likely won’t. Murray is the best player in this trade. That’s why the Hawks are also getting an unprotected first here.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dejounte Murray, Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets Updates
After moving so much draft capital for Murray, that asset would be a blessing. Meanwhile, the Hawks are still getting an impact player to help their retooling efforts. By making this deal, they may be able to answer some questions.
