Hawks' Dejounte Murray Denies Rumor Jazz Rejected Trade Involving SG, Keyonte George

The Atlanta Hawks had a coveted trade piece in Dejounte Murray this season, but they chose to hold on to the veteran guard.

While Murray was rumored to be involved in multiple trade scenarios this year, he took exception to a report that the Utah Jazz turned down the opportunity to acquire him in exchange for rookie guard Keyonte George:

Earlier this week, Ben Anderson of Utah's KSL Sports said on the Jazz Notes podcast, "I will tell you that there was some talk about Dejounte Murray to the Jazz at the trade deadline and it was going to cost the Jazz Keyonte George and the Jazz said no."

George was selected by Utah with the 16th pick in the 2023 draft. He went on to be named to the All-Rookie second team on Monday after appearing in 75 games with 44 starts and averaging 13.0 points, 2.8 rebounds and 4.4 assists. It would be understandable if the Jazz were hesitant to give him up, as they are in the midst of a rebuild and missed the playoffs for a second straight year with a 31-51 record.

However, passing up on the opportunity to acquire Murray would be surprising. The former All-Star averaged a career-high 22.5 points while adding 5.3 rebounds and 6.4 assists in 78 starts this past season.

The Hawks are facing a crucial offseason where they must decide whether they will forge ahead with the talented backcourt of Murray and Trae Young despite the team's lack of success since Murray was acquired in 2022. Atlanta also owns the No. 1 pick in the 2024 draft, so there could be some wheeling and dealing involving Murray or Young as the franchise tries to return to contention next year.