The New Orleans Pelicans are once again mired in injury woes, this time with key forward Trey Murphy III suffering an ankle injury during their recent overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets. The game, held on Sunday, ended with the Pelicans falling short 132-129, but it was Murphy's injury late in the third quarter, as he landed awkwardly after trying to grab a rebound, which left fans and teammates worried for his future.
Before his exit from the game, Murphy was performing outstandingly, leading his team with 21 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and two steals, showing his potential to become the Pelicans' top offensive option amid the team’s injury crisis. His shooting stats were notable as well, with 9-of-16 from the field and 3-of-7 from beyond the arc. "Murphy suffered an apparent ankle injury late in the third quarter,” reported by The Athletic.
This injury leaves the Pelicans with just more uncertainty. Throughout the season, the team has struggled with their lineup, having been without their stars Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram for significant periods. Williamson is currently sidelined with a hamstring issue, and meanwhile, Brandon faced his own setback with an ankle injury suffered earlier this month on December 7. With backup point guard Jose Alvarado also out, the team's offensive depth feels thinner than ever.
There’s no doubt Murphy has risen to the occasion this season. Prior to this latest mishap, he had been averaging 19.2 points per game alongside 4.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists with impressive shooting percentages of 44.4% from the field and 34.6% from the three-point line. His contributions were pivotal for the Pelicans, who, with their current record of 5-24, are desperately needing all talented players healthy.
Drafted by the Pelicans through a trade with the Memphis Grizzlies back in 2021, Murphy signed a five-year contract extension at the beginning of the season, solidifying his future with New Orleans. This position as one of the key players makes his injury even pricier for the organization. “If Murphy is forced to miss extended time, it will be a huge blow for the team,” warned ESPN.
Despite the early season struggles for the Pelicans, reports indicate Murphy is among three untouchable players the team considers indispensable as they eye the impending trade deadline. His exceptional growth from his rookie year to this season validates the anticipation around him—a bright future for the franchise hinges on players like Murphy developing and staying healthy.
The outcome of Murphy's injury awaits clearance and assessments from the team's medical staff, and how long he might be sidelined remains uncertain. Observers note how integral Murphy has become to the team’s hope this season. With the franchise already facing scrutiny for their lackluster record, losing what could be their top scorer midway through the season makes the road back even steeper. “He is among three untouchable players with the upcoming trade deadline looming,” implied NBA Insider.
It’s been tough for the Pelicans as they've battled internal injuries, unable to find momentum or consistency on either offensive or defensive fronts. The silver lining may yet lie within Murphy's performances when healthy, as fans hope for his quick recovery. The expectation is not just about fixing the season anymore; it is about preserving the franchise's core as injuries have introduced new challenges previously unforeseen.
With the Pelicans’ season hanging by a thread, the health of Trey Murphy III will be watched closely, as the team needs all the help it can get to make something out of this tumultuous start. Trailing behind, will this injury close the door on any comeback dreams for the Pelicans, or is there still hope left?
