The NBA offseason has kicked off with a blockbuster trade, as the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies finalized a deal on Sunday that sent sharpshooting wing Desmond Bane to Orlando in exchange for a hefty package centered around four first-round picks and a swap. This market-setting trade could shape the trajectory of the offseason, putting pressure on contending teams to make bold moves to keep pace.
The Pelicans’ alleged asking price for Trey Murphy III:
• One veteran who can contribute in the playoffs
• One young prospect with potential
• Multiple first-round picks(Via @DoingItDodson / h/t @Fullcourtpass ) pic.twitter.com/4OhjZl9ZFT
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 13, 2025
Among the teams poised to explore significant roster upgrades are the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors, both of whom possess the draft capital to pursue high-impact players. One name that stands out as a potential target is New Orleans Pelicans’ two-way wing Trey Murphy III, a rising star reportedly valued at a $112 million contract. With the Pelicans potentially open to offers, both the Warriors and Celtics have the assets to construct compelling trade packages for the versatile forward.
Warriors’ Potential Trade Package
For Golden State, a trade for Murphy III could involve a sign-and-trade of Jonathan Kuminga, alongside Moses Moody, Buddy Hield, and additional draft capital. This package would also include reserve guard Jose Alvarado heading to the Warriors. Kuminga, a high-upside young forward, would serve as a direct replacement for Murphy, giving New Orleans a player with significant potential. Hield, who proved his worth as a playoff contributor this season, adds veteran shooting, while Moody provides depth and youth. The inclusion of draft picks sweetens the deal, giving the Pelicans flexibility to rebuild or retool.
Celtics’ Potential Trade Package
The Celtics, meanwhile, could structure a deal around veteran guard Jrue Holiday, center Neemias Queta, and their own draft capital to acquire Murphy III. This trade would allow Boston to shed Holiday’s sizable salary while bringing in a young, dynamic wing to bolster their roster. Queta would provide New Orleans with a developmental option at center, and the draft picks would enable the Pelicans to add cost-controlled rookie contracts to their roster. For the Celtics, landing Murphy would be a significant coup, enhancing their wing depth and long-term flexibility.
Which Team Has the Edge?
When comparing the two offers, the Warriors’ package appears more enticing. Jonathan Kuminga, at this stage, is a more valuable asset than an aging Jrue Holiday, offering greater long-term upside. Additionally, Golden State’s ability to include more draft capital could make their offer harder to refuse. However, Pelicans GM Joe Dumars reportedly holds Murphy in high regard, and it’s uncertain whether either team’s proposal will meet New Orleans’ asking price. With Murphy’s combination of shooting, defense, and youth, he won’t stay on the market for long.
The Clock Is Ticking
The Desmond Bane trade has set the tone for an aggressive offseason, and teams like the Warriors and Celtics cannot afford to sit on their hands. Trey Murphy III represents a rare opportunity to acquire a high-impact, two-way talent who fits seamlessly into contending rosters. Whether it’s Golden State leveraging their young assets or Boston capitalizing on their veteran depth, the team that acts decisively could secure a cornerstone player for years to come. The question remains: will either team meet the Pelicans’ steep demands before another contender swoops in?