As the 2025-26 NBA regular season winds down, the buzz around playoff contenders is electric. But let's not overlook the New Orleans Pelicans, who are already stirring the pot with their offseason strategy. Word on the street, courtesy of insider Shamit Dua, is that the Pelicans are playing it smart with Trey Murphy III, viewing him as a perfect match alongside their rising star, Yves Missi.
Murphy’s versatility on offense makes him a valuable asset, and the Pelicans have set his trade value sky-high to keep other teams at bay. This move isn't just about protecting a player; it's about building a future. The Pelicans see Murphy as a key piece in their puzzle, and they're not letting him go without a hefty return of draft capital and top-tier prospects.
Despite being a hot topic during the trade season, Murphy remains with the Pelicans, and they’ve made it clear they want him to stay put. His recent antics, like a cheeky rookie prank on teammates Micah Peavy and Jeremiah Fears, keep things light, but his on-court performance is serious business.
In a recent showdown against the Los Angeles Clippers, Murphy dropped 27 points, snagged five rebounds, and dished out two assists, leading the Pelicans to a 105-99 victory. That win marked their third straight, and Murphy's role was undeniable.
Murphy is also on the brink of a unique milestone. He's just three dunks away from joining an exclusive club of players with at least 100 dunks and 100 made threes this season-joining the ranks of Victor Wembanyama and OG Anunoby. But here's the kicker: Murphy could become the only player to notch 100 dunks and 200 threes.
While the Pelicans sit at the 12th spot in the Western Conference with a 25-46 record, Murphy's impact is undeniable. Up next, they face the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Smoothie King Center, and fans are eager to see if the Pelicans can keep their winning streak alive.