LAC
The request comes as the Pelicans navigate a challenging start to the season, currently holding a 4-8 record. The team is mired in a four-game losing streak, most recently suffering a 145-111 home defeat at the hands of the Brooklyn Nets. Murray has expressed a desire to contribute in a meaningful capacity for a different organization.
Tensions Rise Amid Pelicans' Struggles
The relationship between the player and the environment in New Orleans has appeared strained in recent days. Following the loss to the Nets, Murray posted a message on social media in response to a post highlighting the team's 3-0 record without him compared to a 1-8 mark when he is on the floor. In the since-deleted tweet, Murray wrote, "From what's going on INSIDE, this sounds like someone hit you to say this! THE 'SABOTAGE' IS REAL!"
Murray, 30, arrived in New Orleans in June 2024 following a trade with the Atlanta Hawks that saw the Pelicans send two first-round picks, Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., and E.J. Liddell to Atlanta. His time with the Pelicans has been marked by significant injury setbacks. After breaking his hand in the 2024 season opener, he later sustained a ruptured right Achilles tendon in January 2025, which ended his campaign.
Statistical Context and Future Outlook
Before joining the Pelicans, Murray was coming off a 2023-24 season where he averaged 22.5 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game. However, his production has fluctuated during his time in New Orleans, where he has averaged 16.6 points, 6.6 assists, and 5.9 rebounds while shooting 41.9% from the field. In the current season, he is averaging 13.4 points per game.
The 2022 All-Star is currently earning $32.8 million for the season and holds a player option worth $30.8 million for the following year. Having played only 54 games over the past three seasons due to various injuries, Murray is now looking to reset his career trajectory elsewhere as the Pelicans evaluate their path forward.