In their quest for a season turnaround, the Los Angeles Lakers are actively seeking a superstar player to bolster their roster. Recent considerations highlight Atlanta Hawks’ Dejounte Murray as a prime option. 

While Zach LaVine has been a recent focus, NBA insider Shams Charania has brought Murray into the spotlight. Murray emerges as an attractive prospect, especially given LaVine’s higher salary. The Hawks’ player, armed with a $120 million contract with four years remaining, becomes a logical target for the Lakers. Lakers’ GM Rob Pelinka is reportedly weighing various factors, including Murray’s contract extension set to kick in next season.

The question now is, who might be on the trade table for Murray?

While the Lakers remain undecided on their strategy, one potential snag in the trade could be the Hawks’ reluctance to accept any player for Murray. If they entertain the idea, reports suggest that Austin Reaves could be a part of the trade. Reaves, a rapidly rising fan favorite in Los Angeles, has endeared himself to supporters. 

There is hesitation among fans who have supported Reaves if he becomes a bargaining chip in acquiring another player. On the flip side, Reaves appears to be one of the few players who could make sense in a potential trade for Murray.

Currently 27 years old, Murray is in his second season with the Hawks after delivering an All-Star-level performance during his tenure with the San Antonio Spurs. 

Despite challenges in replicating his prior success with the Hawks and the coaching staff’s struggle to pair him up effectively with Trae Young, Murray maintains a high level of play. Averaging 20.2 points, 5.3 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game, Murray remains a formidable asset, shooting at an impressive 37.4% from beyond the arc in 30 starts this season.