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Dejounte Murray has reportedly requested a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans, adding fresh uncertainty to a disappointing start for the franchise. According to ESPN, Murray’s agent, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, and Pelicans officials have begun working toward a resolution.
The development comes as New Orleans sits at 4-8 and enters Friday’s NBA Cup matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies riding a four-game losing streak. Murray will not play in that game because of a left ankle sprain, according to the report.
Dejounte Murray Wants a New Basketball Opportunity
Sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania that Murray has made it clear he is ready to play a key role in meaningful basketball elsewhere. The reported request signals a major change for a player the Pelicans acquired to help stabilize their backcourt and compete in the Western Conference.
New Orleans made a significant investment in Murray during a June 2024 trade with the Atlanta Hawks. The Pelicans sent two first-round picks, Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr. and E.J. Liddell to Atlanta in exchange for the veteran guard.
At the time of the deal, Murray was coming off a strong 2023-24 campaign in which he averaged 22.5 points, 6.4 assists and 5.3 rebounds per game. He was expected to provide scoring, playmaking and defensive toughness alongside the Pelicans’ talented frontcourt.
Struggling Start Raises Pressure on New Orleans
The current season has not developed as either side hoped. The Pelicans are 4-8, and their recent form has intensified questions about the team’s direction. New Orleans suffered a 145-111 home defeat to the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday, marking its fourth consecutive loss.
After that game, Murray responded to a social media post highlighting the Pelicans’ contrasting records with and without him. The post noted that New Orleans was 3-0 without Murray and 1-8 when he was on the court. Murray’s response, which was later deleted, included the accusation: “The sabotage is real!”
The exchange added another layer of tension around a team already dealing with frustration. Zion Williamson also publicly criticized the Pelicans after the blowout loss, saying players needed to look themselves in the mirror following the performance.
Injuries and Production Complicate Dejounte Murray Trade Picture
Murray’s trade value could be influenced by both his contract and recent injury history. The 30-year-old guard has played only 54 games over the past three seasons after suffering a broken hand during the 2024 season opener and a season-ending ruptured right Achilles tendon in January 2025.
Since joining New Orleans, Murray has averaged 16.6 points, 6.6 assists and 5.9 rebounds per game while shooting 41.9% from the field. His scoring has fallen to 13.4 points per game this season, a notable decline from his production before arriving in New Orleans.
Murray is earning $32.8 million this season and holds a player option worth $30.8 million for next season. Those financial details could make any potential trade more complicated, particularly if interested teams want greater certainty about his health and future plans.
What Happens Next for the Pelicans?
The immediate priority for both sides appears to be finding a workable solution. A trade would give Murray the opportunity to join another team, while the Pelicans could seek players, draft assets or salary flexibility to reshape their roster.
However, a deal may not happen quickly. Murray’s injury status, contract option and recent production could limit the market, while New Orleans must decide whether moving him is the best way to address its broader problems. The team also needs to consider the value of the picks and young talent it surrendered in the original trade.
For now, Murray remains a Pelicans player, but the relationship appears to have reached a critical point. With the season still young, New Orleans faces an urgent decision that could influence its roster, coaching strategy and long-term direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Dejounte Murray want a trade?
According to ESPN sources, Murray wants the chance to play a key role in meaningful basketball elsewhere. His reported request comes during a difficult 4-8 start for New Orleans.
Is Dejounte Murray playing against the Memphis Grizzlies?
No. Murray has been ruled out of Friday’s NBA Cup game because of a left ankle sprain.
What is Dejounte Murray averaging this season?
Murray is averaging 13.4 points per game this season. Since joining the Pelicans, he has averaged 16.6 points, 6.6 assists and 5.9 rebounds per game.
How much is Murray’s contract worth?
Murray is earning $32.8 million this season and has a player option worth $30.8 million for the following season.
Who is working on a resolution?
Murray’s agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, and New Orleans Pelicans officials are reportedly working toward a resolution.
