The New York Knicks and the Atlanta Hawks are languishing in the middle of the Eastern Conference standings, and the latest Dejounte Murray trade rumors should prompt them to make a move.
Murray is the center of trade talks lately amid the struggles of his current team.
The Hawks acquired him at the start of the 2022-2023 season to pair up with Trae Young and become a contender in the East. However, it hasn't happened, and Atlanta is, at best, a mid-tier club.
"Multiple teams consulted in Orlando believe that the Hawks will explore their trade options with Dejounte Murray over the next six weeks leading up to the Feb. 8 trade deadline," Marc Stein wrote on his website.
The Knicks are linked to Murray. However, other rumors are that they might be a third team that will make it possible for the Los Angeles Lakers to sign the one-time All-Star.
"One player that I am told to keep an eye on, a potential target for the Lakers, Hawks guard Dejounte Murray. Murray still has four years, $120 million of an extension that kicks in next season, so that is a little bit better when you think of a reasonable salary to be bringing in when you already have LeBron James and Anthony Davis on your books," NBA Insider Shams Charania revealed.
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Murray is a priced asset but is worth giving up something for. The Knicks should try their best to land a player of Murray's caliber who can still be an All-Star under the right team and system.
What can the Knicks offer for the 27-year-old?
First thing's first, Murray's contract.
The 2022 NBA steals leader is set to earn $17.7 million this season. Last July, he signed a four-year, $114 million extension with a player option for the 2027-28 season.
Can the Knicks accommodate his contract?
Aside from that, where in the rotation should he go, as coach Tim Thibodeau's squad is already loaded with guards?
Knicks trade offer
A straight swap is enough to get this trade going.
Evan Fournier and Quentin Grimes, plus two first-round draft picks, should do for the Hawks.
The Knicks can release themselves from the Fournier's contract, which is $18 million this season. The French shooting guard fell out of Thibodeau's favor in the past seasons and got stuck on the bench.
Grimes only earns $2 million this year but is just fourth in the team's guard depth chart.
Murray is an upgrade for RJ Barrett, who should come from the bench now. He recorded 120 points per game in the last three seasons, even if he had to play as second fiddle to Young last season. Murray, Jalen Brunson, and Julius Randle will make a formidable trio.
The newest recruit will also elevate the Knicks' defense on the wing department as Murray was named to the All-Defensive team in the 2017-18 season and continues to show the defensive swag this year.
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