Questioning what occurred to New Orleans Pelicans ahead Trey Murphy III? The fourth-year participant was within the midst of a breakout season earlier than struggling a big shoulder damage. His efficiency had been a shiny spot for the struggling Pelicans, making his absence a serious setback.
Right here’s what to learn about Murphy’s damage, his career-best season, and what it means for New Orleans transferring ahead.
What occurred to Trey Murphy III?
The Pelicans dominated out ahead Trey Murphy III for the season after he suffered a torn labrum and partial tear of the rotator cuff in his proper shoulder.
Murphy dislocated his shoulder within the first quarter of Monday’s 127-81 loss to the Pistons whereas diving for a unfastened ball. He performed just one minute earlier than exiting. The Pelicans confirmed the prognosis after additional examination.
Murphy was within the midst of a career-best season, averaging 21.6 factors, 5.2 rebounds, and three.6 assists in 52 video games whereas taking pictures 45.4% from the sphere and 36.1% from three-point vary on 8.4 makes an attempt per recreation (by way of NBA). His scoring common marked a 6.4-point enhance from final season. He additionally recorded his third straight season with a minimum of 150 made three-pointers. The Pelicans have said that updates on his restoration will probably be supplied when acceptable.
The 6-foot-8 ahead had solidified himself as a key participant for New Orleans, excelling as a 3-and-D wing. Final October, Murphy signed a four-year, $112 million rookie contract extension with the Pelicans. He had elevated his position considerably this season after primarily coming off the bench in his earlier years.
The Pelicans have struggled with accidents all through the season and at present maintain an 18-51 file with 13 video games remaining. They’ve been out of playoff rivalry for an prolonged interval. Murphy’s absence additional compounds the workforce’s difficulties in an already difficult season.
