There has been a sense for a while that Reaves, who has been an impressive success story after going undrafted in 2021, has been almost untouchable for the Lakers. They have been reluctant to even consider including him in any potential trade going back to the summer of 2022.
But almost midway through this season, perhaps they should at least consider changing that stance.
The Lakers’ best current trade target appears to be Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray, who is averaging 21.1 points and 5 assists a game while shooting 39.4% from 3-point range. Murray, like Reaves, is a 6-foot-5 combo guard, but unlike Reaves, he’s an excellent defender and possesses plenty of speed and athleticism, two things the Lakers are prioritizing in a potential trade.
Reportedly, the Hawks will only consider sending Murray to L.A. if it gives up Reaves, Rui Hachimura and likely more.
Via Bleacher Report:
“Any type of deal centered around Dejounte Murray, it would have to be Austin Reaves, you would think Austin Reaves would be a part of that, Rui Hachimura would probably be in it,” wrote Chris Haynes. “For Atlanta, that just wouldn’t be enough. It wouldn’t be enough. The Lakers, they have interest but the problem with the Lakers is they need more pieces that’s going to be attractive for the Atlanta Hawks.”
The Hawks are just 15-21 and in 11th place in the Eastern Conference. They’re rumored to be looking to move on from Murray, so perhaps they will lower their asking price as the Feb. 8 trade deadline approaches.
But with LeBron James now 39 years of age, every season is very possibly his last excellent season, as well as the Lakers’ last chance to win another NBA championship with him. James could turn down his player option for next season and leave the team this summer, so it may need to be flexible and meet the Hawks halfway if it wants to land Murray.
It should be noted that Murray is represented by Klutch Sports, the same agency that represents James and fellow Lakers superstar Anthony Davis.
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