Suns Rumored to Have Interest in Dejounte Murray as He Seeks Trade

Dejounte Murray’s public frustration with his role in New Orleans has sparked immediate speculation about a potential move to the Phoenix Suns, though the reality of the situation appears far more complicated than the social media chatter suggests.

The 30-year-old Pelicans point guard signaled his dissatisfaction on social media this past Thursday, a move that ESPN’s Shams Charania reported was driven by a desire for a trade.

By Friday, the rumor mill was in full swing, with long-time NBA reporter Chris Haynes noting that the Suns had “registered interest” regarding Murray’s availability. For a Phoenix roster currently grappling with an identity crisis, the potential fit seems logical on the surface, yet those closest to the team urge caution.

The Reality of Phoenix’s Roster Strategy

While the prospect of adding a veteran playmaker to pair with Devin Booker is enticing, the front office in Phoenix is currently maintaining a disciplined approach. John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports reported on November 13 that there are no active conversations between the Suns and the Pelicans. According to Gambadoro, Phoenix is choosing to exercise patience, opting to evaluate its current roster chemistry before committing to any drastic mid-season restructuring.

New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray wants a trade from the franchise, and his agent Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul and team officials have started working on a resolution for the one-time All-Star, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/OoozAwcqvN

— Post by @ShamsCharania on X

This measured stance stands in contrast to the external pressure surrounding the team. On October 29, Haynes reported that internal locker room frustration had been mounting in Phoenix due to the team’s glaring lack of a traditional point guard.

The search for a facilitator is not merely a stylistic preference; it is a strategic necessity aimed at unlocking the most effective version of Devin Booker. As Gambadoro noted, the organization is keenly aware of this dynamic but is currently resisting the urge to force a transaction.

The Athletic’s Sam Amick further clarified the situation, stating that while there is no material movement between the two clubs, Murray’s camp is clearly expressing interest in a relocation to the Valley.

This aligns with the historical precedent of players represented by Klutch Sports Group using public platforms to express dissatisfaction when they seek a change of scenery. The most notable instance occurred in October 2017, when Eric Bledsoe famously tweeted that he did not want to be in Phoenix—a move that ultimately led to his trade to the Milwaukee Bucks.

The Phoenix Suns have registered interest in New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray who has let it be known that he seeks a change of scenery, league sources tell me.

— Post by @ChrisBHaynes on X

Salary Cap Constraints Influence Potential Murray Trade

The connection to the Suns is not just about basketball fit; it is heavily dictated by the salary cap. Murray is currently playing on a deal that includes a player option worth $30.7 million, a figure that mirrors the $36 million option held by current Suns guard Jalen Green for the 2027-28 season.

Green has struggled to find his rhythm this year, often splitting touches in a crowded backcourt alongside Booker, Miles Bridges, and Dillon Brooks.

For a team balancing these financial commitments, any trade involving Murray would require a precise alignment of assets. Murray, the 30th overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, brings a pedigree that includes a 2022 All-Star appearance and a season as the league’s steals leader.

However, his recent durability remains a point of concern for any potential suitor, as he missed a substantial portion of the last two seasons recovering from a torn Achilles.

Haynes all star guard dejounte murray with ceo of rich paul

Statistically, Murray has struggled to find efficiency this year. As a starter for the Pelicans, he is averaging 13.4 points, 4.4 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game while shooting 43% from the field and 30% from three-point range. Whether these numbers represent a slump or a long-term decline is the question front offices are currently weighing.

As the situation develops, the influence of Klutch Sports Group remains a notable backdrop. With six current Suns players—including Brooks, Bridges, and rising prospect Koa Peat—represented by the agency, the organizational ties are undeniable.

Yet, as of mid-November, the Suns remain non-committal. The team has not initiated calls, and the front office appears determined to let the current iteration of the roster prove its worth before entertaining the high cost of a trade.

The Phoenix Suns have had no conversations with the New Orleans Pelicans regarding Dejounte Murray at this time. They have not checked in with them and are not calling around The thought of trading for a PG had a lot to do with unlocking the best version of Devin Booker but Book…

— Post by @Gambo987 on X