Favale also suggested a hypothetical offer that would send Murray to the Brooklyn Nets. This idea could have legs if only because the Nets were one of the teams rumored to have held an interest in landing Murray ahead of this year’s trade deadline.
“Names like Trae Young and Darius Garland will amble across Brooklyn's radar if they shake loose. Marks and friends should abstain,” Favale wrote. "Murray represents a happy medium—a fringe All-Star on a bargain deal … who brings much-needed creation and table setting at the lead-guard spot while elevating the defense (even if only slightly these days).”
This hypothetical trade would bring back a couple of familiar faces.
“Atlanta's end of the deal is harder to reconcile,” Favale wrote. “But if remaining competitive and balancing out the roster is the endgame, Schröder and DFS help accomplish just that without complicating the long-term payroll.”
Schroder began his career with the Hawks, a first-round pick (No. 17 overall) in 20133. The Hawks traded him following the 2017-18 season and after drafting Young.
He averaged 14.0 points, 6.1 assists, and 3.0 rebounds this season.
Schroder also shot 37.5% from downtown and would add some competitiveness at the point of attack on defense. But the Hawks traded him for a reason, so this deal could certainly make more sense if they are looking to part with both guards and need a placeholder.
The Hawks had eyes for Finney-Smith dating back to last season. The veteran is averaging 8.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists.
Typically a 3-D threat, his 34.8% mark from three belies his still-sturdy perimeter defense.
Adding the future draft capital from Phoenix looks more appealing after seeing how they’ve performed this postseason. But there is no guarantee they will crater without full control of their picks.
Favale does suggest the Hawks could insist on 2023 first-round big man Noah Clowney, which could help push this deal over the top.
Grade B-: This idea is best if the Hawks go for a full reset or re-route Schroder.