Four hypothetical Dejounte Murray trade destinations for Pelicans to consider

Dejounte Murray wants a trade, and the Pelicans have agreed to evaluate their options. Finding the right combination of players, contracts and interest could take some work.

Blake Silverman of Sports Illustrated identified four possible destinations⁠, with the Suns drawing particular attention because of Murray’s reported interest in joining them.

The possibilities below reflect Silverman’s analysis. Murray’s $30.8 million player option for next season figures into each scenario.

Suns

Silverman examines a Murray-for-Jalen Green framework, which would give Phoenix a more traditional point guard alongside Devin Booker.

Green holds a $36 million player option for next season, so Murray would represent some savings while changing the backcourt’s makeup. The Suns would still be committing substantial money to a guard whose availability and production have been concerns.

According to the Athletic reporting cited by Silverman, the teams had not discussed that specific swap. Murray’s enthusiasm for Phoenix alone won’t get a deal done.

Warriors

Silverman identifies Kristaps Porzingis and potentially Moses Moody as pieces of a possible package.

The Warriors could use another creator with Stephen Curry sidelined. Porzingis’ absence has also left them looking for production from a significant salary slot.

Silverman notes that only $3 million of Porzingis’ contract is guaranteed next season, which could appeal to the Pelicans. For Golden State, the question would be how Murray fits with Brandin Podziemski and, eventually, a healthy Curry and Jimmy Butler.

Pistons

Detroit could offer Murray a role helping Cade Cunningham create offense. Silverman points to John Collins and Kevin Huerter as potential outgoing pieces, though both are trade-restricted until Dec. 15.

The Pistons would have to weigh that additional playmaking against losing two rotation players. Murray’s option also would affect next season’s payroll, when Ausar Thompson’s extension begins.

Cunningham could use help. Detroit would need to be comfortable with both the cost and Murray’s health.

Kings

Sacramento’s case centers on finding veteran support for Darius Acuff Jr., particularly after Ben Simmons’ Achilles injury.

Silverman explores Murray and Herb Jones for Zach LaVine, with the Kings needing to provide additional draft assets to account for Jones’ value.

That would turn a search for backcourt help into a considerably bigger transaction. Acuff’s development gives Sacramento a reason to explore veteran additions, but including Jones would raise the Pelicans’ asking price.

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