It hasn’t been a great season for the New Orleans Pelicans, despite Trey Murphy III’s solid run. The small forward has had a prolific season so far, but the side is set to miss the playoffs for the second consecutive season.
Adding to their woes is Murphy III, who has found himself on the injury report ahead of their matchup against the top-seeded Detroit Pistons. The Pelicans will be sweating over the fitness of one of their key stars as they look to snap their two-game losing skid.
Trey Murphy III Injury Update: Questionable Against the Pistons
In what comes as a game-time decision, Murphy III is listed as questionable with a right ankle sprain, per CBS Sports. While the good news is he hasn’t been ruled out of the game yet, the decision to play him becomes a last-minute one.
Also on the Pelicans’ injury list is Dejounte Murray (Achilles) as questionable, while Bryce McGowens is ruled out with a right toe fracture.
The Pelicans are coming off a 121-116 loss to the New York Knicks earlier this week. Murphy III finished his evening with 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. Zion Williamson led the team with 22 points, while Jeremiah Fears came off the bench to chip in with 21 points.
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On the season front, Murphy III is averaging 21.7 points (his career best), 5.7 rebounds, and 3.8 assists while shooting 47.1% from the field and 38.3% from the 3-point line. He leads New Orleans in minutes played and points, and is second in assists. He is third in steals, averaging 1.5 per game.
It has been a busy season for the forward, with his name popping up in trade rumors ahead of the trade deadline this year. The likes of the Los Angeles Lakers and the Pistons were linked to the Pelicans star, but he remained with the side and will now cap off what has been a good season personally.
The Pelicans have looked promising but have been patchy this season. While the roster is young and has motor, the team has been erratic on defense. Their offense has sputtered, and injuries to key names over the course of the season have played a role in the team’s forgettable run.
Much of the criticism has focused on roster construction. With the franchise wrapping up its 2025-26 NBA season early, it remains to be seen if major moves will be made to reshape the team composition.
It also remains to be seen if Murphy III will find a new home next season, possibly with a contender. At the time of writing, the Pelicans are 11th in the West with a 25-48 record.
