Although the Atlanta Hawks haven’t reached championship contention with Trae Young and Dejounte Murray playing together, the mutual respect between the two remains evident. This bond was highlighted in Young’s message following the Hawks’ recent matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Hawks secured a 124-112 victory over the Pelicans on December 2, 2024, marking their fourth consecutive win. Young played a significant role in the win, recording 12 points and 15 assists, earning his 15th double-double of the season. Meanwhile, De’Andre Hunter led the Hawks with an impressive 22 points off the bench, showcasing Atlanta’s depth and versatility. Hunter’s standout performance was especially meaningful as it coincided with his birthday, adding to the team’s celebratory mood.
On the other hand, the Pelicans’ struggles continued, largely due to injuries to key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. Their absence has been detrimental to the team, which now faces a grim 4-18 record after enduring their ninth straight loss. CJ McCollum carried the offensive load for New Orleans, scoring 29 points, but his efforts weren’t enough to lift the team. The Pelicans’ inconsistency on both ends of the court remains a critical issue, exacerbated by the unavailability of their star players.
Atlanta’s success was driven by their sharp shooting in the second half, where their offensive execution improved notably. Seven Hawks players finished in double figures, and the team shot an impressive 51% from the field. A pivotal moment came late in the third quarter when Young drained a three-pointer, giving Atlanta the momentum needed to secure control of the game.
Defensively, the Hawks demonstrated remarkable cohesion and teamwork. Their unselfish style of play was reflected in the team’s 31 assists, setting a franchise record for consecutive games with 25 or more assists. This emphasis on ball movement and creating open looks has been a cornerstone of Atlanta’s recent resurgence, allowing them to consistently outpace their opponents.
After the game, Trae Young shared a heartfelt message about Dejounte Murray, who now plays for a different team. In a post on his official X account, Young reflected on facing Murray for the first time since the latter’s trade. Despite Murray’s struggles in the game, shooting just 2-for-15, Young expressed his ongoing admiration and friendship. He noted that competing against Murray felt unusual but emphasized their continued communication and mutual support.
The respect and camaraderie between the two players persist despite their separation, a testament to their strong relationship. As the NBA season approaches its latter stages in 2024, both the Hawks and the Pelicans will look to build around their respective stars, aiming to rise in the standings and establish themselves as contenders.
