The New Orleans Pelicans will be without forward Trey Murphy III for the remainder of the 2024-25 season after suffering a serious shoulder injury. Murphy, who suffered a torn labrum and partially torn rotator cuff in his right shoulder, was hurt during the first quarter of Monday’s game against the Detroit Pistons. The injury occurred when Murphy dislocated his shoulder while diving for a loose ball. Murphy was on the court for a total of one minute before being forced to leave the game, marking yet another setback in a season that has already been marred by injuries for the Pelicans.
Murphy, in the midst of a breakout year, had been averaging career highs across the board, including 21.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. He had also become a key factor for the Pelicans, shooting 45.4% from the field and 36.1% from three-point range. This season, Murphy’s performance saw a significant jump from previous years, and he had established himself as a critical piece of the Pelicans’ roster, ranking as the team’s second-leading scorer behind Zion Williamson. The 24-year-old’s impressive play was a silver lining in an otherwise disappointing season for New Orleans.
The Pelicans, currently holding a 18-51 record, have struggled to remain competitive this season, largely due to injuries to key players such as Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. With the team long out of playoff contention, Murphy’s injury only further compounds their woes as they enter the final stretch of the season. The Pelicans will likely be incentivized to lose in order to improve their lottery odds for the 2025 NBA Draft, which is expected to feature top-tier talent, including Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, and Ace Bailey.
Murphy, who was drafted 17th overall by New Orleans in 2021, had been a reliable starter this season, averaging 35 minutes per game. His absence leaves a significant void, and while the Pelicans plan to update his status as necessary, his loss marks a tough blow for the team in an already challenging season.
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