Trey Murphy's Outstanding 35-Point Effort Leads Pelicans Offense Amidst Injury

Trey Murphy delivered an outstanding performance on Friday, tallying 35 points (13-21 FG, 3-7 3Pt, 6-6 FT), six rebounds, and one steal across 39 minutes in the New Orleans Pelicans' 118-104 loss to the Lakers. The fifth-year forward has been on a scoring tear recently, with this marking his fourth consecutive game with 20-plus points and his second 35-point effort in that span, following a slow start to the season. Murphy, who signed a four-year, $112 million extension in October 2024, has become the Pelicans' undisputed go-to option on offense, particularly with Zion Williamson sidelined due to a hamstring injury until at least next week. His season averages stand at 18.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.2 blocks.