Why Dejounte Murray Makes Sense as Seattle’s NBA Expansion Target
As the NBA considers expansion ideas, the conversation in Seattle naturally turned to which players would end up wearing the green and gold. While the league has yet to formally approve the new franchises, the groundwork is being laid near the Space Needle. When the Supersonics eventually return, they’ll need cornerstone pieces, and one former Rainier Beach High standout makes a compelling case to be at the top of the wish list. Dejounte Murray makes perfect sense as a target and on The New Orleans Pelicans may be willing to work a win-win deal.
Murray was very active on social media, rooting for the Seahawks during their Super Bowl run. The Sounders and Mariners have also gotten some love lately. Financially, his contract would be perfect for an expansion team over the next two seasons. If the NBA needs more time to make a decision, ties to the city could lead to an extension on the 29-year-old’s 2027-28, relatively inexpensive $30 million player option.
When asked if he would get that special attention in the starting five innings in his first game in 13 months, the former All-Star must be mentioned Seattle multiple times.
“I mean, save me for last. Call me first. It doesn’t matter. I’m in the NBA, you know, I’m just a kid from Seattle. This is a blessing,” Murray said. “I’ve got a lot of emotions in me, you know what I’m saying? I had my family here. So, yeah, I’m definitely grateful.”
“Man, (coming back from injury rehab) was great. Like I said, you know, I’m just a kid from Seattle. I’m in the NBA, and just what I’ve been through, I’ve been through a lot,” Murray added. “But I have no excuses. I keep my chest out, keep my chin up, keep smiling, and I’m just ready to see where it goes from here. I know God has some great things in store for me on and off the floor.”
For a Seattle startup that will need to sell tickets, jerseys and hope from opening day, there might be no better first target than a kid from Rainier Beach who has never stopped representing his city.
2026-02-26 00:42:00
