The plane has finally landed. Over the weekend and into the start of this week, rumors swirled about the Spurs dealing All-Star guard Dejounte Murray, and today a deal was made official. A “Woj Bomb” confirmed that the Hawks would be acquiring Murray in exchange for three first-round selections, a future pick swap, and 2008 Italian League MVP Danilo Gallinari.
This addition helps the Hawks in multiple ways. First and foremost, Trae Young now has a legit right-hand man in the backcourt. Murray averaged 21.1 points, 9.2 assists and 8.3 boards last season while Young averaged 28.4 points and 9.7 assists. Murray also brings a more intimidating defensive presence than Young, Kevin Huerter, and Bogdan Bogdanovic at the guard position. His 6’4 build makes it very difficult for defenders to work against him.
As for San Antonio, it feels like they didn’t get enough in return for Murray, who is one of the best young guards in the NBA. He led the league in steals last season and was named to his first All-Star game. Murray is also only 25 years old. They did get a decent haul of picks, but Gallinari isn’t the most exciting player piece in this package. The 33 year-old forward averaged 11.7 points and 4.7 rebounds last season. I’d be a bit concerned about the future of the Spurs franchise if I was a fan.
