After finalizing the transaction, the Atlanta Hawks acquired three players and two draft picks from the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for Dejounte Murray. Among these acquisitions are two recent draft picks, including one who was selected in the top 10 of his class.
Additionally, the Hawks secured two first-round picks as part of the deal. One of these picks is an unprotected selection from the Los Angeles Lakers in 2025. The other pick will be the less favorable of the Pelicans’ and Milwaukee Bucks’ picks in 2027.
Financial considerations are a significant aspect of this trade, particularly with implications for the team’s future roster, including star player Trae Young, who is currently in the third year of a five-year, $215.1 million contract. Bobby Marks of ESPN highlighted the urgency of the trade due to Murray’s substantial trade bonus, which the Hawks are responsible for paying.
Murray, who signed a four-year, $114 million contract last year, will see his cap hit increase from $25.2 million to $28.2 million for the 2024-25 season.
In return for Murray, the Hawks sent four first-round picks (including unprotected selections in 2025 and 2027, swap rights in 2026, and a lottery-protected pick from the Charlotte Hornets) along with veteran Danilo Gallinari to the San Antonio Spurs.
The trio of players acquired by the Hawks includes Larry Nance, Dyson Daniels, and E.J. Liddell, whose combined contracts total $29.7 million. This represents a savings of approximately $6 million compared to Murray’s new cap hit for the upcoming season, allowing the Hawks to avoid the luxury tax.
Nance, aged 31, brings versatility and defensive capability, while Daniels, the eighth overall pick in the 2022 draft, contributes as a strong defender despite challenges in shooting. Liddell, recovering from an ACL tear, offers potential as a forward.
Overall, the Hawks’ acquisition strategy has bolstered their defensive depth and provided financial flexibility, earning a solid grade of B+ for their offseason maneuvering. However, uncertainties remain regarding the broader impact on the roster beyond their key players like Risacher and Johnson.
