3 Trade deadline moves that would boost Lakers, 2 they must avoid

Move to boost Lakers: Trade for Dejounte Murray

The 27-year-old All-Star is available. Atlanta reportedly wants two first-round draft picks in return, but they may struggle to find a taker. His salary climbs every year, and Murray is locked in until 2027. The Hawks have struggled to win and could decide to take the top offer before the deadline.

Murray is not the perfect fit, but he can score 20 points per game, make plays, and defend. His defense has slipped in Atlanta, but a change of scenery could get him locked in and back to leading the league in steals. Murray shines as a lead ball-handler, but his shooting is a worry.

The 6’5 guard has made 37.6 percent from 3-point range this season but is a career 34.4 percent marksman. His outside shooting may improve playing off LeBron James and Anthony Davis, but the Lakers woes make this a gamble.

Still, Dejounte Murray is the best player the Los Angeles Lakers can get before the Feb. 8 trade deadline. They must make a massive splash if they want to jump into contention. It is never easy to pull off a blockbuster trade, but Rob Pelinka has experience. Stay tuned to see what the Lakers get done.