Who Is Trey Murphy III?
Trey Murphy III is a forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, selected with the 17th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies before being traded to New Orleans. He played his college ball at the University of Virginia, where he was a standout shooter.
At 25 years old, Murphy combines size, shooting range, and developing defensive instincts — traits highly sought after in modern NBA wings.
Physical Profile: Height & Build
Height & Measurements
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Height: 6′8″ (2.03 m)
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Weight: 206 lbs (93 kg)
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Position: Small forward / wing
These measurements give Murphy an ideal blend of size and mobility, allowing him to guard multiple positions and be versatile on both ends of the floor.
Contract Details
One of the biggest signs of trust from the Pelicans organization came in October 2024, when Murphy agreed to a four-year contract extension.
Contract Breakdown
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Contract length: 4 years
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Value: Approx. $112 million
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Average annual salary: ~$28 million
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Cap hits: Approx from $25M to $31M over the term
This extension signals that the Pelicans view Murphy as a key part of their long-term plans, not merely a role player — with expectations elevated alongside his compensation.
Career & Season Stats: Scoring, Rebounds & More
Murphy’s numbers have grown steadily since his rookie year, reflecting expanded role, usage, and efficiency.
NBA Career Overview
Through his NBA tenure, Murphy has progressed from a role player to one of his team’s primary scorers when healthy. Below is an overview of his recent performance:
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Points per game: Around 18–21+ PPG (2025–26 season sample)
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Rebounds: ~6+ RPG
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Assists: ~3–3.5 APG
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Shooting: Solid field goal and 3PT percentages, strong free throw shooter
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Career Trend: Growth year-over-year in usage and statistical impact
For example, in the 2024-25 season before injury, Murphy was averaging 21.2 PPG, 5.1 RPG, and 3.5 APG, marking a career-high offensive output.
Shooting & Efficiency
Murphy maintains an above-average 3-point mark for his position (~38% range career) along with good free throw performance — traits that make him a threat stretching defenses.
Advanced Metrics (2025-26)
Advanced analytics also highlight his improved overall impact on offense, though defensive metrics show room for growth — something we’ll dive into next.
Defensive Ability – Is Trey Murphy III a Good Defender?
A key question among fans and analysts: Is Trey Murphy III a good defender?
Defensive Strengths
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Size & Length: At 6′8″, Murphy has the physical profile to contest shots, switch onto multiple positions, and rotate effectively.
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Active Hands: He has demonstrated above-average steals and deflections for his role, showing effort and awareness.
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Rebounding Effort: His rebounding figures contribute to team defense by securing possessions and initiating transitions.
Areas of Improvement
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Consistency: While his physical tools are excellent, consistency in on-ball positioning, communication, and defending elite scoring wings is still developing.
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Lateral Quickness: Some critics note he can struggle in lateral mobility against explosive perimeter players — a common challenge for developing wings.
Verdict: Not Elite, But Improving
Murphy’s defensive profile is above average with clear upside — especially if he continues to develop instincts and technique. He’s not yet widely considered an All-Defense caliber player, but his size and effort make him a reliable presence on the perimeter and in switches.
Injury History & Current Status
Injuries have been a storyline in Murphy’s career, especially as he’s taken on a heavier offensive and defensive workload.
Significant Injuries
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Right shoulder torn labrum & partial rotator cuff tear: Suffered in March 2025, ending his season early.
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Right hamstring strain: Earlier setback during 2024 training camp sidelined him temporarily.
These injuries raised questions about durability, especially regarding shoulder strength and lateral mobility, both vital for two-way wings.
Recovery & Outlook
As of late 2025, Murphy has been reported progressing in rehab and participating in training camp activity after his shoulder injury. Expectation is that he’ll continue building strength and confidence heading into the full 2025-26 schedule.
Staying healthy is key — the Pelicans are counting on him as a core contributor.
Development & Role with the Pelicans
Murphy’s role has shifted from bench sharpshooter to a primary scoring option when called upon.
Offensive Versatility
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3-point threat stretching defenses
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Ability to create his own shot off the dribble
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Rebounding and secondary playmaking capabilities
Team Dynamics
Playing alongside stars like Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum, Murphy provides spacing and scoring punch from the wing — while also contributing defensively when called upon. Coaches increasingly trust him in varied lineups due to his two-way skill set.
Comparison to Other Wings
Compared to many perimeter forwards, Murphy’s length and shooting put him in a modern “3 +” wing mold — similar in role to players who stretch defenses while defending multiple positions. His defensive tools are comparable to rising two-way wings across the league, though his defensive impact is still evolving.
Should Pelicans Keep Him Long-Term?
Given his contract through 2028-29, the Pelicans are invested in Murphy for the foreseeable future. Even amid trade rumors (with teams like the Trail Blazers reportedly interested), New Orleans may be reluctant to move him due to his fit and value.
FAQs About Trey Murphy III
Here are the most frequently asked questions about Trey Murphy III:
How tall is Trey Murphy III?
He is 6′8″ (2.03 m) and weighs 206 lbs.
What contract does Trey Murphy III have?
He signed a 4-year, $112 million extension with the Pelicans, showing the team’s long-term commitment.
Has Trey Murphy III dealt with major injuries?
Yes, notable injuries include a season-ending torn labrum and partial rotator cuff tear in 2025, as well as a hamstring strain.
What are his NBA career stats?
He has shown year-over-year improvement, with scoring around 18–21+ points per game and improved assists and rebounds — showing a versatile growth trajectory.
Is Trey Murphy III a good defender?
Murphy has the size, length, and effort to be a solid defender and switch onto multiple positions — but he’s still developing consistency to be considered elite on that end.
What makes him valuable to the Pelicans?
His scoring ability, shooting range, and versatility make him a valuable offensive weapon — and his defensive tools provide added value for modern switch-oriented schemes.
What’s next for Trey Murphy III?
Key areas to watch include health and consistency, especially defense and shooting efficiency — plus how he integrates into Pelicans rotations for playoff contention.
Final Thoughts
Trey Murphy III is a modern NBA wing — tall, skilled, and developing both offensively and defensively. His contract extension, statistical growth, and two-way potential make him one of the more intriguing young forwards in the league.
