How This Trade Impacts New Orleans
The New Orleans Pelicans have had a peculiar offseason. They got some salary relief, trading Eric Bledsoe and Steven Adams to the Memphis Grizzlies. With the available cap space, many people thought they would be aggressive in free agency to upgrade the roster.
That move ultimately never materialized. New Orleans was hopeful to land Kyle Lowry, but he ended up landing with the Miami Heat via sign-and-trade from the Toronto Raptors. The Pelicans could have matched the offer sheet that Lonzo Ball signed with the Chicago Bulls as well but opted not to.
Devonte’ Graham was acquired in a sign-and-trade from the Charlotte Hornets to help shore up their backcourt. But, he has some shortcomings outside of his 3-point shooting. That is why pairing him with someone such as Dejounte Murray would make for a good fit.
The Pelicans’ defense was not good last season and Murray would help turn that around. He can spearhead their defensive effort, giving them another plus defender along with Brandon Ingram on the wing and Steven Adams at the center spot.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: This Pelicans-Timberwolves Trade Features D’Angelo Russell
Murray is also improving every season with his offensive skills. He is an improving pick-and-roll player and already has a strong mid-range game. Murray also finishes at the rim well for a guard, giving New Orleans some diversity to their offensive attack.
3-point shooting is Murray’s weakness and is something that the New Orleans Pelicans need more of. That is where Bryn Forbes comes in, as he is an excellent 3-point shooter. Forbes is a 41.2 percent shooter from the 3-point line and connected on a career-high 45.2 percent last season with the Milwaukee Bucks.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: This Pelicans-Timberwolves Trade Features D’Angelo Russell
The trade package should not deter New Orleans, as Murray is the highest upside player in the exchange. How does San Antonio feel about this trade package? Let’s take a look at it from their perspective.
