The Atlanta Hawks’ high-profile trade for Dejounte Murray initially seemed promising but ultimately missed the mark. While the prospect of pairing Murray with Trae Young looked dynamic on paper, the fit between two ball-dominant guards was horrific. From the start, many wondered: could two playmakers effectively share the floor? Few, however, anticipated just how challenging the reality would be.
On an individual level, Trae Young and Dejounte Murray each put up solid numbers. Yet, the Hawks often performed better with only one of them on the court. Defensively, Murray did not bring the shutdown perimeter presence many expected when he joined the roster. The Atlanta Hawks found themselves stagnating in the Eastern Conference, competitive but far from being true contenders.
This past offseason, the Hawks made the tough decision to move on, trading Dejounte Murray for what appeared, at first glance, to be a fraction of their original investment.
Atlanta Hawks’ Trade Breakdown: What They Gave Up vs. What They Got
In their initial deal with the San Antonio Spurs, the Hawks parted with three first-round picks plus a 2026 pick swap for Dejounte Murray. In the recent trade with the New Orleans Pelicans, however, they received a 2025 first-round pick from the Los Angeles Lakers and a top-four-protected 2027 first-round pick. But the real surprise in the trade? Dyson Daniels. Known for his defensive prowess, Daniels hadn’t found a steady role in New Orleans, yet he’s quickly proving to be a hidden gem for the Hawks.
Dyson Daniels’ Rising Impact on the Hawks
Recently, Dyson Daniels delivered a breakout performance in the Hawks’ shocking win over the Boston Celtics—a game where they were 16-point underdogs and without Trae Young. Daniels posted a career-high 28 points on 12-of-21 shooting, adding seven assists and six steals, showcasing his potential on both ends of the floor.
While this may have been his best offensive showing, it’s Dyson Daniels’ defense that’s grabbing attention. Many now view him as one of the league’s top perimeter defenders. He leads the NBA in both steals and deflections per game and has racked up 36 steals in his first 10 games—a record unseen since Allen Iverson achieved it in 2003.
Dyson Daniels has 36 steals in his first 10 games
That is the most since Allen Iverson in 2003 pic.twitter.com/uo1w6u2HW8
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) November 13, 2024
Daniels is exactly the type of player the Hawks have needed desperately for years, a true Tasmanian Devil on the defensive end that can make life easier for Trae Young.
However, Daniels’ offensive potential might be far greater than the Pelicans ever imagined when they dealt him to Atlanta. He’s averaging nearly 21 points on 49.1% shooting from the field over his last three games, and he’s doing that while shooting just 21.4% from behind the arc. If Daniels can continue to improve his jump shot as his career continues, he may end up being far better in Atlanta than Dejounte Murray ever was.
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Photo: Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire
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