New Orleans Pelicans swingman Trey Murphy III appears hopeful in his return to play next week against the Brooklyn Nets on Monday. The Pelicans have been without their third-year player due to a hamstring injury suffered in early October. New Orleans is in need of some good news, and Murphy’s return is exactly that.
Pelicans Swingman Targeting Nets For Season Debut
Pelicans Swingman Trey Murphy III Appears Ready to Play
When the Pelicans traded for Atlanta Hawks star Dejounte Murray early in the offseason, hope and expectations arose. Murray was considered a third star to join Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. With Murray’s addition, the Pelicans made a significant upgrade in hopes of building off last season, where they made the playoffs. Bad luck struck when the former Spurs draft pick went down in the season opener. Murphy was also MIA on opening night and the Pelicans subsequent ten games. CJ McCollum and Herb Jones also remain presently sidelined. Suffice it to say, the Pelicans are injury-plagued at the moment. And they dropped to 3-7 on the season following their latest loss to the Orlando Magic on Friday.
Disappointing start aside, at least one of their missing key players is probable to return as early as Monday when New Orleans hosts Brooklyn. According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, Murphy is targeting that game as his season debut. Only time will tell how his return will impact the Pelicans in turning a page toward winning some basketball games. Murphy is an excellent player who keeps improving his game each year. Though, he’s not a player who can carry a team on his back. That responsibility falls to someone like Williamson. Although, he too has been in and out of the lineup, playing in only one of New Orleans’ last four contests.
On paper, the Pelicans look like a definite playoff contender. However, once their roster is back and in full health, it may take until midseason for them to really start clicking. A starting lineup of Williamson, Ingram, Murray, McCollum, and likely Murphy or Jones is no joke.
Murphy’s Impact On A Successful Team Season
Murphy has become vital in New Orleans since they traded for him in the 2021 draft. They then signed him to a four-year extension before the start of this season. The move showed that the organization expects Murphy to be around for years to come. His star power doesn’t reach the heights of Williamson’s or Ingram’s. However, Murphy is undoubtedly one of the top swingmen in the league. His ability to play small forward and shooting guard is crucial to the Pelican’s game plan. He’s also able to guard multiple positions on the floor, and his offensive production has increased each season. Since his rookie season, he’s averaged 14.6 PPG and 39.2% from three.
Murphy’s impact will be needed once the Pelicans get their health back in order. Don’t be surprised if, once their roster is complete and playing together, New Orleans makes a run and is contending for a playoff spot come April of next spring.
