The Los Angeles Lakers, led by 5-time All-NBA First Team pick Luka Dončić, aspire to win their 18th NBA championship in 2025-26. However, a defensive upgrade may be necessary to improve the team’s title chances.
Los Angeles added Marcus Smart, a former Boston Celtics guard and 2022 Defensive Player of the Year, this offseason to compliment Dončić, although his greatest days may be behind him.In an effort to get a younger, more reliable defensive guard with a more polished all-around game, the Lakers’ general manager Rob Pelinka may contact the front office of the New Orleans Pelicans to arrange an offense-for-defense deal highlighted by Los Angeles’ fringe
Austin Reaves and Dejounte Murray, New Orleans’ 2022 All-Star and steals champion (2.0).
If such a trade were to take place, Los Angeles’ Gabe Vincent and Jaxson Hayes, as well as their former No. 17 overall choice in the 2024 NBA Draft Dalton Knecht, would be required to smooth things out financially.
Murray may have missed 52 games in his first season with the Pelicans last season due to a variety of injuries, but his incredible increase in productivity since entering the NBA as the San Antonio Spurs’ former No. 29 overall choice in 2016 may pique the Lakers’ attention.
Murray’s efficiency dipped precipitously in 2024-25, but his counting stats of 17.5 points, 7.4 assists, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.0 steals remain appealing to potential trade partners.
Murray may be an ideal backcourt mate for Dončić, a generational offensive player. His long arms, fast feet, and unwavering hustle make him an undeniably good potential fit opposite the defensively inept superstar.
Murray’s offensive growth could benefit the Lakers as a tertiary option after Dončić and LeBron James.
Murray’s final healthy season with the Atlanta Hawks in 2023-24 saw him average 22.5 points, 6.4 assists, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.4 steals while making 36.3% of his 7.1 three-point tries in 78 games.
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