Suns Set Their Sights on Dejounte Murray as a Key Target

Phoenix Suns Express Interest in Dejounte Murray Following Trade Request

Recent reports indicate that the Phoenix Suns have shown interest in acquiring guard Dejounte Murray from the New Orleans Pelicans. This pursuit comes after Murray made it known that he is seeking a trade from his current team, as per Chris Haynes on Friday.

The Pelicans confirmed the trade request, stating, “Today Dejounte Murray’s representatives informed us of his request to be traded. We will evaluate potential trade opportunities that are in the best interest of our organization.”

Murray, 30, is currently in the third year of a four-year, $114 million contract, which includes a player option for the final season. Throughout nine games this season, he has averaged 13.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists. His shooting efficiency stands at 43.1% from the field with a three-point shooting percentage of 29.6%.

On the defensive end, Murray averages 1.6 steals per game and boasts a remarkable 92.6% success rate at the free-throw line. However, his scoring average this season lags behind his career-best mark of 22.5 points per game achieved during the 2023-24 season with the Atlanta Hawks.

This acquisition interest from Phoenix arises amid ongoing speculation about Jalen Green’s status within the team. There are indications that the Suns are keen on trading the 24-year-old guard for a more seasoned point guard.

Sam Amick of The Athletic noted that interest is mounting regarding Phoenix’s next steps with Green ahead of the trade deadline. Observers believe that the Suns are aiming to exchange him for a reliable playmaker.

Green joined the Suns in the 2025 trade that sent Kevin Durant to Phoenix, yet his performance has stagnated since leaving Houston. After averaging 21.0 points per game during his last season with the Rockets, he recorded 17.8 points in 32 games in his initial season with Phoenix and has seen a decline to 11.8 points per game over the first 11 matches of the current season.

Currently, Green is in the second year of a three-year, $105.3 million contract, which includes a $36 million player option for the 2027-28 season. Any potential trade would necessitate careful consideration of this financial commitment by all parties involved.

Nevertheless, the Suns are not expected to hastily make a trade. Amick reported that a source within the team suggested Phoenix intends to be patient and may delay serious trade discussions until later in the season.

Currently, the Suns have won four of their last five games, improving their record to 5-6. They are set to host the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday, November 15.