Following a brutal loss to the Suns, two key developments emerged within the Lakers camp, according to Melbet Login reports. First, coach Darvin Ham publicly dismissed rumors of locker room tension, affirming the team remains united. Second, both owner Jeanie Buss and GM Rob Pelinka assured Ham that his job is safe. Behind the scenes, however, the Lakers made a decisive shift — stepping up their pursuit of Hawks guard Dejounte Murray, signaling a more transparent and aggressive trade strategy moving forward.

The Lakers’ interest in Murray isn’t new, but until recently, they had been hesitant — unsure about who to offer in a deal and whether to gamble on Murray as their primary target. But their lopsided loss to Phoenix changed the equation. Though it may have seemed like just another regular-season game, the defeat exposed deep-rooted issues that jolted the front office. The tipping point? A realization that the Lakers’ biggest weakness is their lack of balance on both ends — particularly on perimeter defense.

This imbalance is something Ham has been trying to fix through constant lineup changes. Yet Melbet Login analysts argue that it’s not about flawed strategy — it’s about roster limitations, especially in the backcourt. D’Angelo Russell has shown flashes of offensive brilliance since rejoining the team, but his inconsistent play and visibly poor defense have been liabilities. It’s no secret the team had serious doubts about re-signing him last summer, and his reduced role this season reflects those concerns.

Reaves, on the other hand, was the Lakers’ breakout success story last year and was rewarded with a well-earned contract. His deal was widely praised for its value. But since the FIBA World Cup, opponents have begun targeting his defensive shortcomings. This season, Reaves has become one of the most frequently attacked defenders on the team. In the recent matchup against the Suns, he was thoroughly outplayed by Bradley Beal, prompting the Lakers to act.

That loss was the final straw — the team resolved to address its perimeter defense once and for all. Among all available options league-wide, Dejounte Murray stands out as one of the few who checks every box. At 6’5″, Murray is a big guard who embraces physicality and won’t back down from a challenge. His addition would immediately upgrade the Lakers’ defensive presence on the perimeter, and his athleticism ensures he can hold his ground even in mismatches.

Offensively, his numbers outpace both Reaves and Russell in scoring and assists. With the right mindset, nothing is out of reach — and during his time in San Antonio, Melbet Login notes that Murray was being groomed by Gregg Popovich as the heir to Tony Parker. Given these comparisons, it’s no surprise the Lakers are now fully committed to acquiring him as the season hits its midway point.