Trey Murphy III to Undergo Surgery for Shoulder Injury

Trey Murphy III, a forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, is out for the rest of the 2024-25 NBA season due to a torn labrum and partial rotator cuff tear in his right shoulder. The injury occurred in the first minute of a game against the Detroit Pistons, following a collision with Ausar Thompson. Murphy, who was having a career-best season averaging 21.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, will undergo surgery and is expected to recover by next season. This injury poses a significant setback for the Pelicans, who already have a challenging season with a record of 18-50 and have been eliminated from playoff contention. Murphy's absence adds to the list of injuries plaguing the team, which had banked on his development alongside Zion Williamson after trading Brandon Ingram. Murphy had recently secured a four-year, $112 million contract, affirming his role as a key player in the Pelicans' future plans.