Dec 7, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray (5) gathers teammates including New Orleans Pelicans guard Trey Murphy III (25) and New Orleans Pelicans guard Javonte Green (4) for a huddle as the team falls behind against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Key Starter Ruled Out With Injury in Pistons-Pelicans

Originally posted on New Orleans Pelicans on SI
By Liam Willerup | Last updated Mar 17, 2025 9:46 PM ET

The New Orleans Pelicans haven't had a good season by any standard, boasting an 18-50 record entering Monday before their contest against the Detroit Pistons. On the bright side, they'll be in a good position come season's end to be selecting high in the 2025 NBA Draft that features a talented class with Duke's Cooper Flagg being the top prize.

While New Orleans has the talent, injuries have held them back this season. From Dejounte Murray to Zion Williamson, seemingly everyone has spent time on the injury report this year. Facing off against the Pistons, a key Pelicans starter went down with an injury and won't return because of it.

Trey Murphy III (right shoulder) will not return to tonight’s game vs. Detroit.

X-rays were negative.
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) March 18, 2025

Following a right shoulder injury that yielded negative X-rays, Pelicans guard Trey Murphy III will not return to Monday's contest at home against the Pistons.

Murphy has been a bright spot this year for New Orleans, averaging a career-best 21.6 points per game, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists. The fourth-year guard out of Virginia, Murphy is set to begin his four-year, $112 million rookie extension next season as he looks to be a piece of this Pelicans roster going forward.

Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

While the X-rays did come back negative, there's no telling how long Murphy could be out until a further update is provided from the team. However, as mentioned, New Orleans' current situation in the standings provides no reason for Murphy to be rushed back in any way.

This article first appeared on New Orleans Pelicans on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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