.jpg)
1 hour ago
3
New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III has been one of the more intriguing names mentioned ahead of next week's trade deadline.
NBA insider Evan Sidery reported Wednesday that several teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, are pursuing the forward.
"The Lakers, Pacers, Pistons, Spurs, Trail Blazers, and Warriors are among the teams who inquired with the Pelicans on Trey Murphy III during trade season," Sidery said.
Murphy is averaging 21.9 points, six rebounds and 3.7 assists in 45 games this season. He's shooting 47.9% from the field and 36.9% from deep.
More: Lakers, Knicks pursuing former All-Rookie center
He signed a rookie extension with the Pelicans in Oct. 2024. Murphy is making $25 million this season and is guaranteed $87M through the 2028-29 season.
New Orleans has been hesitant to include Murphy in trade talks, as the Pelicans want to see him grow with their core of Zion Williamson, Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears. Sidery believes the price to acquire Murphy will be steep.
"For New Orleans to even consider dealing away Murphy, it would take a top-notch prospect along with three 1st-round picks."
Murphy has spent his entire four-year NBA career with the Pelicans after being selected No. 17 overall in the 2021 NBA Draft. He's battled injuries throughout his career but has only missed two games this season.
LA only has two tradable first-round picks. General Manager Rob Pelinka would have to trade assets for more future picks if he wants to acquire Murphy. Lakers to watch in a potential Murphy trade include Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht, Maxi Kleber and Gabe Vincent.
English (US)