The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring both Dejounte Murray and Clint Capela from the Atlanta Hawks, adding to the speculation surrounding potential moves ahead of the approaching NBA trade deadline on February 8. Sources suggest that Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka has shown interest in the talented guard Murray and the veteran big man Capela.
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Dejounte Murray, Clint Capela
The proposed trade involves several players with significant salaries. The Atlanta Hawks would be acquiring Austin Reaves at $12 million, Rui Hachimura at $15.7 million, and Jalen Hood-Schifino at $3.6 million. In exchange, the Los Angeles Lakers would receive Dejounte Murray, who comes with a salary of $17.7 million, and Clint Capela, whose salary is set at $20.6 million.
While the Lakers are open to a trade scenario involving Murray and Capela, negotiations have hit a roadblock due to the Hawks’ insistence on including third-year guard Austin Reaves in the deal. Reaves, who emerged as a fan favorite since joining the Lakers as an undrafted rookie, is highly valued within the organization. The Lakers have consistently maintained their stance of keeping the 25-year-old out of all trade discussions, not just with the Hawks but also in talks with other teams.
The sticking point in the discussions is Austin Reaves, and the Hawks would need to reconsider their desire to acquire him for talks to progress further. The Lakers front office is determined to retain Reaves, reflecting his significance to the team both on and off the court.
Acquiring both Dejounte Murray and Clint Capela could be a significant boost for the Lakers. Murray’s defensive prowess on the perimeter would address a key need for the team, while Capela, alongside Anthony Davis, could form a formidable front-court trio alongside LeBron James.
Despite the potential roadblocks, the Lakers have alternative young talents that they could consider offering in the trade. Players like Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, and D’Angelo Russell could be viable options to entice the Hawks.
With the trade deadline approaching, both the Lakers and the Hawks are motivated to improve their respective rosters and make a push for the postseason. The negotiation dynamics may shift as the deadline draws nearer, and finding common ground could be the key to finalizing a deal that benefits both teams. It remains to be seen which side, if any, will adjust its stance in the pursuit of a mutually beneficial trade.
Austin Reaves Is The Only Valuable Asset The Lakers Have
In the Lakers’ current roster, Austin Reaves stands out as the most valuable asset, particularly in the context of potential trade scenarios. While the team boasts players like Rui Hachimura, D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, Taeunan Prince, and Cam Reddish, none have displayed consistent performance levels that would make them major assets in the competitive trading market.
Reaves, in his third season, has showcased significant improvement, solidifying his status as a valuable player. Averaging 15.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 5.2 assists, with an impressive shooting efficiency of 49.0% from the field and 34.4% from beyond the arc, Reaves has become a crucial contributor for the Lakers. His well-rounded skills and versatility make him an attractive asset for potential trade partners.
At 25 years old, Reaves is also in contention for the 6th Man of the Year award, further enhancing his market value. Teams looking to make a trade with the Lakers would likely target Reaves, given his consistent performance and potential for further growth.
While the Lakers have expressed a reluctance to part ways with Reaves, considering him alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis as untradeable assets, the right offer could sway their decision. The team’s priority is to build a competitive roster, and if an enticing trade package is presented, including valuable players in return, the Lakers have to be open to negotiating Reaves’ departure.
In the competitive landscape of the NBA, teams are constantly evaluating and reevaluating their assets, and Reaves’ emergence as a standout performer makes him a key figure in potential trade discussions. As the Lakers navigate the complexities of the trade market, Reaves remains a significant piece in their overall strategy, and any decision involving him will likely hinge on the perceived benefits for the team’s long-term competitiveness.
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