Grade the Trade: 76ers acquire All-Star PG in proposed blockbuster deal

Why the 76ers should not trade for Dejounte Murray

While it’s true that Philadelphia’s best shot at maximizing their window is to look for a well-fitting third star next to Embiid and Maxey, pigeonholing Murray as the guy who can put them over the top feels like a concession.

No offense to Murray, but there is a reason (a non-Wembanyama one) why San Antonio openly liquidated him after he came off an All-Star season. He has probably already peaked in 2022, and in all honesty, it’s hard to see any team giving him the usage necessary to return to his All-Star form.

At this rate, Murray is running on sheer reputation on the defensive end of the floor. His MO on that end depends too much on gambling for steals, resulting in him frequently getting blown and missing players off the ball as he gets caught ball watching. Offensively, he can be a hit-or-miss, with his shot profile consisting of a heady dosage of mid-range shots.

Aside from these reasons on the hardwood, it’s also poignant trading for him when the 76ers can simply stay put and be rewarded with much better options, either in free agency or in trades. Thus, it’s unlikely that the front office will willingly embrace having him on board for the next four to five years despite the fact that his contract is arguably one of the better bargains in the league.

Grade: C