The Detroit Pistons and Indiana Pacers are two teams with registered trade interest in New Orleans Pelicans wing Trey Murphy III, according to NBA insider Marc Stein.
The Portland Trail Blazers reportedly expressed interest in Murphy at February's trade deadline, yet remained relatively quiet. Their only move came on the margins, acquiring sharpshooting role player Vit Krejci from the Atlanta Hawks.
Blazers need to get involved in Trey Murphy trade talks
Under new owner Tom Dundon, Portland is a team to watch this offseason, as they could make a splash to build on their first playoff appearance in five years. Up until this point, it's been Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jaylen Brown as the two stars Portland has confirmed interest in.
The issue with these stars is that Giannis seemingly has no desire to come to the Western Conference, especially a smaller market like Portland. With a player option in 2027-28, he has key leverage in determining his landing spot.
Meanwhile, Portland could potentially pursue Brown as its own offseason blockbuster. While that's more realistic than acquiring Giannis, it likely depends on the Celtics winning the Giannis sweepstakes and the Blazers playing the facilitator role to land Brown.
As of now, Giannis is reportedly open to joining Boston, though the feeling isn't necessarily mutual as the Celtics continue to weigh their options.
Portland may have to look elsewhere in its quest for star power this summer. Kawhi Leonard is another intriguing option as the Los Angeles Clippers retool following their trade deadline moves, but like Giannis, he's on an expiring contract of his own.
Trey Murphy III is the ideal fit for Portland
If the Blazers want to find the perfect two-way star who fits their timeline and is under contract for multiple seasons, it's Murphy who is the ideal fit.
However, every team can use Murphy's services, given his seamless fit and the value of his player archetype across the league. Every team wants him, and the Pelicans may be listening to offers, but they aren't actively shopping him.
All of these signs indicate that Murphy's value is higher than ever and would likely require an overpay for Portland to not only convince New Orleans to part ways with him but also to outbid other teams like the Pacers and Pistons.
But what does that "overpay" look like? There's a world in which it's still potentially worthwhile for the Blazers, given their desire to add a star and Murphy's perfect fit with this young core.
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