Getty: Dejounte Murray driving on Andrew Wiggins.
As the NBA trade deadline approaches on February 8, the New York Knicks are facing the need to make some moves. They are actively looking for ways to upgrade their roster, and one name that keeps coming up is Dejounte Murray. Murray has been at the center of trade rumors all season, and there is a possibility that he could be on the move if the Atlanta Hawks receive the return they desire.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopHype, the Knicks believe that the asking price for Murray is currently too high. They are hesitant to part with a first-round pick, the expiring contract of Evan Fournier, and Quentin Grimes, which has been a potential package discussed. However, the additional first-round pick that Atlanta is seeking is not something that the Knicks are willing to give up at this point.
If the asking price were to come down, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Knicks make a play for Murray. The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie considers the Knicks to be one of the best fits for the former All-Star. Vecenie suggests that a trade for Murray would likely involve a first-round pick and a prospect, both of which the Knicks have in Quentin Grimes and their eight tradeable first-round picks. However, these picks may be needed to acquire a superstar in the offseason.
Murray’s potential move would represent a significant change for the Hawks, as the backcourt combination of Murray and Trae Young has not lived up to expectations. Atlanta had hoped that pairing Young with a larger, defensively-minded guard like Murray would allow Young to thrive on and off the ball and improve the team’s defense. Murray, who was an All-Star last season, was seen as an intriguing addition.
With Julius Randle currently sidelined due to a shoulder injury, the Knicks could benefit from adding another ball handler who can score and facilitate. While Murray and Randle have different playing styles, Murray has proven himself to be a high-level scorer. He is currently averaging 21.4 points per game and shooting 46.6% from the field. His three-point shooting has also improved, with a career-best 37% on more than six attempts per game.
Although Murray may not be the same defensive player he was before his time in Atlanta, joining a contender could potentially rejuvenate his defensive abilities. Murray’s skills could be valuable to the Knicks if they deem the price to be right. The question now remains whether Atlanta will lower their asking price or not.
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