Murray asks out. The Pelicans now have to find a workable return.

The New Orleans Pelicans confirmed Friday that Dejounte Murray’s representatives had requested a trade. The club said it would consider opportunities that serve the organization’s interests. Its statement, posted at 4:41 p.m. Central, did not name a destination or announce an agreement.

ESPN reports that Murray’s agent, Rich Paul, and team officials are working toward a resolution. The request follows a four-game losing streak that left New Orleans 4-8, including Brooklyn’s 145-111 win Wednesday.

The contract shapes the market

ESPN lists Murray’s salary at $32.8 million this season and a $30.8 million player option for next season. Those figures make this more than a search for a club that needs a guard. A potential buyer has to assess the salary it would take on, the assets it would surrender and the possibility that Murray controls whether the contract continues for another year.

Murray is averaging 13.4 points this season, according to ESPN. The report also says he is out of Friday’s game against Memphis with a left ankle sprain. The immediate challenge for a potential buyer is assessing how he fits its rotation and offense at that price.

A request does not set the price

For New Orleans, agreeing to explore a move is only the first decision. The next is what a return should accomplish: immediate rotation help, future assets or greater financial flexibility. Those aims can point toward different offers. The club has not publicly set an asking price.

S&S analysis: the Pelicans should judge an offer against the value of keeping Murray and the cost of the contracts coming back. The pressure created by a public request does not make every available deal useful. Until terms emerge, the meaningful development is the club’s acknowledgment that it will evaluate a separation.