Pelicans Face Bucks Amid Injury Woes: Trey Murphy III Doubtful
As the New Orleans Pelicans gear up to face the Milwaukee Bucks this Friday night, all eyes are on the injury report, particularly concerning Trey Murphy III. The talented forward is currently listed as doubtful due to a right shoulder contusion sustained shortly after the All-Star Break. This setback marks only his fifth missed game of the season, underscoring his remarkable durability throughout the 2025-26 campaign.
Both teams are navigating a challenging season, with the Pelicans sitting at 14th in the Western Conference and the Bucks at 11th in the Eastern Conference. Their last encounter on February 4 was a high-scoring affair, with the Pelicans falling 141-137. Murphy was the standout performer, notching an impressive 44 points, six rebounds, six assists, and three steals.
Despite the team's struggles, Murphy has been a beacon of consistency and arguably the Pelicans' top performer. His prowess as a two-way player has been crucial, contributing significantly on both offense and defense.
Over 52 games, Murphy is averaging career-highs in points (22.1), rebounds (5.7), assists (3.8), and steals (1.5) per game. His shooting efficiency is also notable, hitting 47.6% from the field and 37.8% from three-point range.
With Murphy likely sidelined, the Pelicans will need to find other ways to compensate for his absence against the Bucks.
Injury Report:
- Pelicans: Trey Murphy III - Doubtful: Shoulder Contusion Yves Missi - Out: Left Calf Strain Dejounte Murray - Out: Right Achilles Rupture Micah Peavy - Out: Right Great Toe Sprain Hunter Diconson - Out: G League - Two-Way Trey Alexander - Out: G League - Two-Way
- Bucks: Giannis Antetokounmpo - Out: Right Calf Sprain Myles Turner - Out: Right Calf Sprain Taurean Prince - Out: Neck Surgery Alex Antetokounmpo - Out: G League - Two-Way
The Pelicans will need to rally in Murphy's absence and find a way to overcome the Bucks, who are also dealing with their own share of injuries. As both teams look to improve their standings, this matchup will be a test of depth and resilience.