The Los Angeles Lakers are going head-to-head against the Atlanta Hawks. And it is a highly-anticipated matchup for more reasons than one. Since the Hawks threw in Dejounte Murray’s name in the trade market, the former All-Star has been on the Lakers’ radar as their potential third star. LeBron James and Co. are struggling to stay afloat and in desperate need of another superstar. And Murray could solve that problem.

To acquire Dejounte Murray, the Lakers might have to let go of their current assets, including the in-form D’Angelo Russell. However, the Hawks fans were in no mood to welcome Russell to their team and disrespected him amid the Lakers’ Murray pursuit.

D’Angelo Russell is not welcome in Atlanta

D’Angelo Russell suffered the ultimate disrespect during tonight’s Lakers vs. Hawks game. While Russell was on the charity stripes to shoot some free throws, the Hawks fans started chanting, “We don’t want you!” repeatedly. The chants might have been to throw Russell off his game, but it also showed the Hawks fans’ disinterest in the Lakers guard. There have been rumors about the Lakers making an offer for Dejounte Murray, that includes Russell going to Atlanta in exchange. But it looks like the Hawks fans do not want that to happen.

Dejounte Murray has a much higher ceiling than Russell, as he is a younger star. Despite the Hawks’ struggles, Murray has had a great individual season. He is averaging 21.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 5 rebounds. Letting go of Murray to add Russell would not make much sense for the Hawks, as they play the same position and have a similar playing style. And it is evident from Murray’s time in Atlanta that he is not a good fit alongside Trae Young.

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D’Lo might not be available for the Hawks

While the Hawks fans disrespected D’Angelo and did not want him on their team, there is a big chance he might not be available for taking either. Russell might have saved himself from getting traded from LA because of his recent scoring outburst. The Lakers guard has come alive in the last few games and become a legitimate third star alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. After a slow start to the season, Russell is averaging 27 points and 6.2 assists in the last 9 games.

“He Owed Us”: Darvin Ham Makes an Honest Confession About D’Angelo Russell’s Crucial Play After Nearly Costing the Lakers With Late Turnovers

D’Lo was in constant trade talks when the transfer window opened. But he has proven his worth in the recent games and caused the Lakers front office to reconsider their options. If D’Angelo continues his incredible form for the remainder of the season, he might become a key contributor in turning the season around for LeBron James and Co.

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