With OG Anunoby in the Bag, the Knicks Now Have Their Sights Set on the Lakers’ All-Star Target

The Knicks made headlines on Saturday by securing forward OG Anunoby in a deal with the Raptors that is believed to be a win on both sides. Along with Anunoby, the Knicks also acquired Precious Achiuwa and Malachi Flynn while the Raptors got Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, and a 2024 second-round pick. The Knicks remain active on the trade market.

Anunoby had been on their radar for quite some time, and after him, they have now locked their target on the Hawks‘ shooting guard Dejounte Murray. As per sources, they continue to show interest in the 27-year-old guard.

Murray’s name is still on the table for the Knicks

Senior NBA Insider Michael Scotto states that the team is keen on taking in Murray. “The Knicks have been targeting Anunoby and Hawks guard Dejounte Murray. While losing Quickley seemingly hurts a potential trade package for Murray on paper, Murray remains a player the Knicks are interested in acquiring,” he says. Murray currently averages an impressive 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game.

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The Knicks have been watching him for a good reason—Murray has impressive stats, and the team could really use this additional power. They have been struggling to make an impact so far in the season and this addition could boost their performance in pushing them ahead. However, there is also a potential that Murray might end up in the Lakers.

The Lakers want Dejounte Murray

In the effort to acquire Murray, the Knicks have a huge contender as the Lakers seem equally interested in him. NBA Insider’s Shams Charania says about the Lakers’ rumor, “One player that I am told to keep an eye on, a potential target for the Lakers, Hawks guard Dejounte Murray. Murray still has four years, $120 million of an extension that kicks in next season, so that is a little bit better when you think of a reasonable salary to be bringing in when you already have LeBron James and Anthony Davis on your books.” 

It’s unclear how far along the conversations have progressed in terms of communication between the teams, but from what it appears, the Knicks would have an edge over the Lakers in terms of acquiring Murray, as they possess the kind of package that could lure the Hawks in with their array of young players.

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What do you think of this trade rumor? Would Murray fit in better with the Knicks or the Lakers? Share your thoughts!