Pelicans’ Trey Murphy III Shows Promise Amid Struggling Season

NEW ORLEANS, La. — As the New Orleans Pelicans navigate a challenging season, rookie Trey Murphy III is emerging as a bright spot, showcasing significant growth and potential. Despite the team’s recent struggles, including a 12-35 record, Murphy III’s development is drawing attention from coaches and fans alike.

Head coach Willie Green recently praised Murphy III’s maturity and improved ball-handling skills. “It’s rewarding to see one of our younger players continue to mature in his basketball career,” Green told ClutchPoints. “Trey puts the work in. He is watching film, getting in the gym, and getting extra work in at night. Really good to see, and he will be very, very good as his career progresses.”

Murphy III, a 24-year-old wingman, has evolved from a sharpshooter to a multi-dimensional player. Green highlighted his ability to attack the basket, draw fouls, and improve his rebounding. “We are starting to see Trey handle the ball a bit more in our offensive possessions and attack guys off the dribble,” Green added. “As long as he continues to work on it and do it with confidence like he has been doing, the sky is really the limit for him.”

The Pelicans’ focus on individual player development comes as the team faces an uphill battle to make the NBA Playoffs. With stars like Zion Williamson, CJ McCollum, and Dejounte Murray leading the charge, Murphy III’s growth offers a silver lining for the franchise. His recent performances have even sparked discussions about his potential as a future NBA All-Star.

However, the Pelicans’ struggles on the court continue. On Monday, they fell 113-104 to the Toronto Raptors, marking their third consecutive loss. Williamson delivered an impressive performance with 31 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks, but the team’s inability to control the offensive glass proved costly.

Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks, who will face the Pelicans on Wednesday, are coming off a dominant 130-108 victory over the Washington Wizards. Daniel Gafford led the charge with 18 points, eight rebounds, and five blocks, helping the Mavericks improve to a 25-22 record.

As the Pelicans prepare to host the Mavericks at the Smoothie King Center, all eyes will be on Murphy III to see how he handles increased responsibilities. With the team’s playoff hopes fading, the focus shifts to building for the future, and Murphy III’s development could be key to the Pelicans’ long-term success.