When the Atlanta Hawks traded Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2024, both organizations believed they were moving toward a better future. Atlanta wanted to reshape its roster after the unsuccessful Trae Young-Murray experiment, while New Orleans hoped Murray would complement Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones.
Two years later, that trade looks increasingly favorable for Atlanta.
According to ESPN's Shams Charania, Murray has requested a trade from New Orleans, with his representatives working alongside the organization toward a resolution. That development adds another disappointing chapter to a partnership that hasn't produced the results either side envisioned.
Hawks already have the biggest winner from the Dejounte Murray trade
Atlanta received Dyson Daniels and two first-round picks as part of the deal. At the time, Daniels was considered a promising defensive prospect, but his development has transformed the trade's outlook.
Daniels has since established himself among the NBA's premier perimeter defenders, providing Atlanta with the defensive versatility and playmaking that its previous backcourt lacked.
His impact goes beyond traditional statistics. Daniels contributes through rebounding, passing and creating turnovers, making him an ideal complementary piece alongside franchise cornerstone Jalen Johnson.
Meanwhile, Murray's tenure in New Orleans has been disrupted by injuries and inconsistent team success. His trade request now raises questions about whether the Pelicans will receive comparable value if they move him again.
The Hawks, meanwhile, already have a player who fits their long-term vision.
Atlanta's remaining draft asset adds another layer of value
The other intriguing element involves Atlanta's 2027 first-round pick from the Murray trade. The Hawks are entitled to the less favorable selection between Milwaukee and New Orleans, subject to top-four protection.
That distinction matters because New Orleans' struggles don't automatically guarantee Atlanta a premium lottery selection. The Bucks' eventual draft position and the pick's protections will help determine what Atlanta receives.
Nevertheless, the selection remains an asset that could become useful as the Hawks continue building around Johnson. Atlanta could use it to add another young contributor or potentially include it in a larger trade package.
The NBA's revised lottery system also creates additional uncertainty about where either team's selection might land. There's no guarantee the pick becomes especially valuable, regardless of New Orleans' final record.
Murray's request doesn't necessarily mean the Pelicans will begin a complete rebuild, either. However, it could force the organization to reconsider its direction if another major roster change becomes necessary.
For Atlanta, the contrast is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. The Hawks moved on from a backcourt that wasn't working and acquired a foundational defender while preserving additional flexibility.
New Orleans is now facing another difficult decision involving the player it acquired.
Sometimes winning a trade becomes clearer with time. For the Hawks, Murray's latest development makes that conclusion increasingly compelling.
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