Dejounte Murray Scouting Report: Is he an Upgrade for the Lakers over D'Angelo Russell?

The Lakers have a big decision coming. They are, by most reports, the frontrunners to acquire Atlanta guard Dejounte Murray. The 27 year old is enjoying arguably his best season as a pro, averaging over 21 points a game, on 47.1% shooting and 39% from beyond the arc (both career highs).

Reputationally, at least, Murray is a solid defender. No question in his first few years in the league, he built a high end reputation on that side of the ball.

So would he improve the Lakers, should the rumored deal (D'Angelo Russell, a draft pick, and perhaps an addition like Jalen Hood-Schifino) go through?

We talked about it with Brad Rowland, host of Locked On Hawks. He's done the hard work of watching Atlanta basketball, and therefore has a front row seat into the Murray experience. What does he do well? How pure a point guard is he? Where do the points come from? Is the outside shooting a mirage, or something sustainable?

What about on the other end? Is his reputation as a defender still deserved? Where has he fallen off in Atlanta, and could it be restored playing higher leverage games with a team trying to compete?

The reasons for making a deal extend beyond this year's team. If the Lakers really like Murray and see him as a potentially foundational piece, acquiring him now makes sense. But would it be smarter to hold on to assets into the summer, when bigger trades might be had? You can only trade players/picks once, after all.

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

SEGMENT 1: Scouting Dejounte Murray with Brad Rowland. Looking at his offense.

SEGMENT 2: What about the defense?

SEGMENT 3: Reaction. What is appealing, what not so much, about the prospect of a Murray trade?

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