Former Spurs' All-Star is candidate to be traded again after awful start in new home

The San Antonio Spurs helped transform Dejounte Murray from the 29th overall draft pick in 2016 to an All-Star. He led the league in steals in 2022, but San Antonio was not ready to compete. They traded the 6’5 guard to Atlanta for multiple first-round draft picks. Those unprotected Hawks’ selections are desirable, and the Spurs do not exactly miss Murray.

The Spurs have several crucial decisions to make before the Feb. 6 trade deadline. Victor Wembanyama is a superstar, but the Western Conference is loaded. San Antonio has holes to fill if they want to contend. The Spurs must decide between maximizing the long-term and improving right now.

Murray figures to be one of the biggest names in trade rumors after a disastrous start in New Orleans. The Pelicans have not been able to stay healthy and face an uphill battle just to reach the Play-In Tournament. They are already ten games out and have the second-worst record in the NBA. It could mean the franchise blows things up and puts Murray back on the block. If the latest rumors are true (subscription required) he may already be there.

Dejounte Murray could be traded again after a nightmare start with the Pelicans

The 6’5 guard missed the first 18 games of the regular season with a hand injury and has struggled since getting back on the floor. Murray averages 16.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 6.9 assists, and 2.0 steals in 32.8 minutes per game. He is shooting just 36.8 percent from the field and just 28.8 percent on his threes.

The 28-year-old has never replicated the All-Star form he showed in San Antonio. The Hawks struggled to find the balance between him and Trae Young running the show. Murray was excited to be the point guard again in New Orleans, but his inconsistent jumper has been on full display. Murray's defensive impact varies and the result could be the Pelicans moving on.

Things are influx in the Big Easy. Brandon Ingram is in the final year of his contract, and the Pelicans have zero interest in giving him a max deal. Zion Williamson cannot stay healthy, and C.J. McCollum is entering the downside of his career. It may be time for the Pels to completely rebuild. Herb Jones, Trey Murphy, and Yves Missi give them a solid young nucleus to start if they send the veterans packing.

The Pelicans have not given Dejounte Murray a chance, but things happen fast in the NBA. If they decide to rebuild, flipping the former All-Star to the highest bidder is wise.

It will be interesting to see how much interest Murray can garner after struggling in his last two stops. He is in his prime with plus-size and playmaking ability. Some team will give up multiple draft picks to acquire him before the deadline.

The San Antonio Spurs are unlikely to be interested in a reunion. Stephon Castle looks like their long-term answer in the backcourt. Do not be surprised to see the Spurs be active before the deadline, and stay tuned to see if Dejounte Murray gets traded again.