Milwaukee Bucks reportedly interested in Atlanta Hawks star Dejounte Murray

The Bucks are looking to streinghten their perimeter defense.

© Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports

The Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly interested in acquiring Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray to try to bolster their dismal perimeter defense. However, the Bucks will have to get in line, as according to NBA insider Chris Haynes, they are one of “multiple” suitors for the services of the two-way guard.

Why the Bucks need a guard of Murray’s caliber

To say the Bucks’ defense has been abysmal this season would be an understatement. The team ranks 25th in points allowed per game—they recently allowed the lowly Detroit Pistons to score 135 points in their previous game—and 23rd in defensive rating. The Bucks’ backcourt is being manned by seven-time All-Star Damian Lillard and journeyman Malik Beasley, both terrific scorers but inadequate defenders.

This is where Murray comes in. A 6-foot-5 guard who led the NBA in steals in 2022, the former first-round pick would provide an immediate upgrade for the Bucks' perimeter defense. The 27-year-old guard is known for his tenacious defense and ability to defend multiple positions. He can also be a valuable contributor on offense with his efficient scoring and playmaking abilities.

Milwaukee Bucks are among multiple teams who are registering interest in trading for Atlanta Hawks star Dejounte Murray, league sources tell @NBAonTNT, @BleacherReport. pic.twitter.com/vlWUIMDPIp

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) January 19, 2024

What price will the Bucks have to pay?

Murray has been superb this season, averaging 21.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. He’s also been efficiently scoring, making 47 percent of his shots, including 38 percent from long distance. So, naturally, Murray will not come cheap for the Bucks.

However, with his contract expiring at the end of this season, it may be a risk worth taking for the Milwaukee team.

“Milwaukee would be able to match Murray's salary by moving key bench players Bobby Portis and Pat Connaughton, whose cap hits combine to just over $20 million. But both Portis and Connaughton are signed through 2025, with player options through 2026, making them a longer-term commitment for the Hawks to consider,” Julia Stumbaugh wrote on Bleacher Report.

Back-to-back game winners 😮‍💨

Dejounte Murray is CLUTCH❗️ pic.twitter.com/eYBwiXfahC

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) January 20, 2024

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