In rare cases, such as Tyrese Haliburton's with the Sacramento Kings, it can be easy to spot which rising stars possess the tangibles of a superstar; they just need the keys as a first option, as well as one-hundred percent support from the coaching staff.
The Indiana Pacers traded an All-Star in Domontas Sabonis for Haliburton, proving they were confident he would soon rise as one of the best true point guards, a lost breed, in the NBA today.
Indiana's confidence from what they witnessed in Haliburton's stint with the Kings is now paying dividends as they are in the Finals, and their point guard is arguably having the most clutch, entertaining run in league history.
Moreover, this summer, the New Orleans Pelicans seem to have made their talented wing, Trey Murphy III, available in trade talks. This is surprising, considering how much potential he has, but New Orleans' front office could view him as a bridge to their next chapter.
Murphy III could bring such a return that could help the Pelicans compete for the playoffs now while still having a future as solid as a rock. This may seem expensive, but when breaking down the rumored ask for the versatile wing, it is something the LA Clippers can certainly afford.
The LA Clippers have all the pieces New Orleans is rumored to be looking for in return for Trey Murphy III
Trading for Trey Murphy III would be a challenge for the LA Clippers, but in the end, it would yield the most successful future, given that he has already shown superstar flashes. He is simply magnificent on both ends and with an athletic six-foot-eight frame, Murphy III can light the rim on fire.
This season, Murphy III did face a bit of an injury, but in total, he played 53 games and averaged 21.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, shooting 45.4% from the field and 36.1% from three-point range. Had he met the 65-game requirement, the former 17th overall pick would have won Most Improved Player of the Year.
Furthermore, rumors about the price to pay for Murphy III surfaced, and they included a playoff-rising veteran, a young star, and highly-valued draft capital. This essentially means the Clippers would have to assemble Norman Powell, Jordan Miller, Cam Christie, and most of the remaining first-round picks over the next five seasons.
The Pelicans are being 'ridiculous' in trade talks for Trey Murphy III, per @DoingItDodson
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) June 13, 2025
— 1 veteran who can play in the playoffs
— 1 young prospect with potential
— MULTIPLE 1st round picks
(https://t.co/dEKHX6DBq9) pic.twitter.com/J4ZW5hp3qb
The LA Clippers would be trading a haul for Murphy III, but when watching his tape, it is easy to see why he is worth it and has the tools to be the face of a franchise.