8 Days Before Trade Deadline, Dejounte Murray Inks Cryptic Message on Instagram Amid Lakers Rumors

With only 8 days remaining before the NBA trade deadline, things are heating up for Dejounte Murray. While the LA Lakers are considering trading for the Atlanta Hawks guard, they are also exploring backup options in case the deal doesn’t materialize. According to NBA insider Shams Charania, the Lakers are still interested in offering a package including D’Angelo Russell, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and a 2029 pick to acquire Murray and bolster their backcourt.

The speculated trade between Murray and Russell gained momentum on Tuesday following his standout performance in the Atlanta Hawks’ 138-122 win over the LA Lakers at home. The All-Star showcased his skills during the game, scoring 24 points on 57.9% shooting, along with nine assists and two steals in 33.2 minutes of play. In comparison, Russell, who is reportedly involved in a potential trade with the Lakers, had a less impressive performance with nine points and five assists.

Amid those rumors, Murray has dropped a cryptic bomb for fans. On his Instagram story recently he wrote, “DONT SAY MUCH BUT I SEE EVERYTHING!!! THAT SMIRK AND SMILE KEEP EM GUESSING.” What is Murray hinting at?

Besides, the potential trade involving Dejounte Murray has become more complicated recently due to D’Angelo Russell’s resurgence in performance. Russell has had a series of impressive games, including three where he scored 27 points or more, leading some to speculate that the Lakers may be reconsidering trading him.

However, Russell had a less productive game against Murray and the Hawks on Tuesday, scoring only nine points on 3-of-11 shooting and tallying five assists in their 138-122 loss. So, it’s worth exploring what other ways the Lakers can acquire Murray with Russell still in the lineup.

Can the Lakers acquire Dejounte Murray without trading D’Angelo Russell?

The first possibility could be trading Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent for Murray and Patty Mills. LA’s offseason signings, Vincent and Hachimura, have underperformed. Vincent’s plagued by injuries, appearing in only five games, making him expendable. Hachimura’s production has declined from last season’s playoffs, averaging 11.7 points and 3.5 rebounds per game. Mills could facilitate salary matching, offering veteran experience. LA may consider waiving or utilizing him as a playoff asset.

Read More: Did D’Angelo Russell and Dejounte Murray Accept Their Fate Amid Rampant Trade Rumors?

Another possibility could be in a potential three-team trade with the Dallas Mavericks, Atlanta gains youth and potential with Vincent and Green, plus Russell’s scoring. Dallas acquires Hunter for wing depth. LA secures Murray and Holmes to bolster their roster.

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.

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