Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III has been diagnosed with a torn labrum and a partial tear of the rotator cuff in his right shoulder, the team announced Monday night.
Murphy underwent an MRI, which confirmed the injury.
The injury occurred just 47 seconds into the Pelicans’ 121-101 loss to the Pistons. On the game’s opening possession, Murphy’s pass was intercepted by Pistons wing Ausar Thompson.
As Murphy attempted to retrieve the loose ball, he dove to the floor and dislocated his shoulder, according to the team. He remained on the court in visible distress before being helped off.
Murphy will miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season due to the injury. The Pelicans, who are already out of playoff contention, will be without the 24-year-old swingman for the final stretch of the campaign. And the injury adds to what has been a difficult season marred by numerous setbacks for the team.
Murphy’s injury marks the third season-ending setback for a New Orleans starter this year. Guard Dejounte Murray suffered a torn Achilles in January, while forward Herbert Jones underwent shoulder surgery in February to address a similar issue.
The Pelicans have not provided additional details on Murphy’s recovery process, including whether he will require surgery. Further updates will be given as necessary.
Despite New Orleans’ challenging season, Murphy enjoyed a career year in 2024-25, averaging 21.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. He appeared in 53 games, starting 51, and posted shooting splits of .454/.361/.887.
Murphy signed a four-year, $112 million rookie-scale extension with the Pelicans last offseason, which will take effect for the 2025-26 season.
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