A training camp preview for New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy.
The New Orleans Pelicans kick off training camp in just a couple of weeks, which means it is time to start preparations for the season. As the roster comes into shape, it's important to take stock of where everyone is heading into camp.
Trey Murphy could be the X-Factor for the Pelicans this season. He was arguably the team's best player last year. Should he take another jump up to an All-Star level, the outlook for this team certainly changes as well.
State Of His Career
Last season, Murphy posted 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.8 assists on 47.0/37.9/88.6 shooting splits. He was one of the most efficient scorers in the NBA last year. He can shoot, has an ideal frame for a modern wing and can fly high for electric dunks.
There's not much more that New Orleans could ask for from someone who many view as that perfect complementary role player on a winning team. That's why contenders tried so hard to trade for him this offseason. The Pelicans believe he can be much more, though, so they don't want to throw away that potential while they are trying to win games.
Murphy is under contract through the end of the 2028/2029 season. The team had no real reason to move him right now on a team-friendly deal. Eventually, though, they'll need to decide whether they can re-sign him in the future. That decision could spur a trade then.
One Area Where He Must Grow
It feels like this coaching staff is going to unlock some more defensive production out of Murphy. With how good his offensive output is, having minimal defensive impact isn't the end of the world. This staff, though, doesn't have a history of accepting that.
Back in 2023/2024, New Orleans was 5.2 points better on defense per 100 possessions with Murphy on the court (per CleaningTheGlass). That was one of the best metrics in the league. Some of that had to do with who he was on the court with in rotations, but his offensive workload was also far lighter.
Goal For Training Camp
The goal for Murphy would be to hit the ground running with this new staff. He has a chance to make a great impression and continue to build out his role for this season. There are competing timelines between the older players trying to win, plus the need to develop the younger stars. Murphy fits right along with both.
