Key Player Ruled Out During Pelicans-Nuggets

The New Orleans Pelicans ruled out a key offensive player during the Nuggets game.

Dec 22, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) shoots a three point basket against New Orleans Pelicans guard Trey Murphy III (25) during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images / Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III exited the game late in the third quarter after stepping on the foot of a Denver Nuggets player after a rebound attempt. Murphy III led the Pelicans in points at that point with 21 on 9/16 shooting.

With the injuries to Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram this season, Murphy III has become the top offensive option for New Orleans. The Pelicans ruled him out for the remainder of the game.

The former Virginia standout signed a five-year extension with the Pelicans before the start of the season, ensuring the sharpshooter will remain with New Orleans for the foreseeable future. Despite the early season struggles for the Pelicans, one report revealed Murphy III is among three untouchable players with the upcoming trade deadline looming.

Trey Murphy III (left ankle) will not return to tonight’s game.

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) December 23, 2024

New Orleans acquired the 6-foot-9 forward in a draft-day deal with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2021. Last season, Murphy III posted career-highs in points, rebounds, and assists. This year, he's elevated his game even further, averaging 19.2 points and 3.6 rebounds this season.

Trey Murphy just turned his left ankle going up for that last rebound. After talking to a trainer, he limped to the locker room.

This team can't catch a break.

— Will Guillory (@WillGuillory) December 23, 2024

While one could argue that the Pelicans can't afford any more injuries after how brutal their season has been, the team is already at a 5-24 record. Unfortunately, it may just be too late for the Pelicans to fix their season, and they are who they are now.

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