Pelicans forward targeting season debut on Monday

Pelicans wing Trey Murphy III is targeting Monday against the Nets for his season debut from a hamstring injury that’s sidelined him since early October, NBA insider Chris B. Haynes reports. We relayed Thursday that Murphy was recently upgraded on the injury report.

The 3-7 Pelicans were expected to be a playoff contender this season, but they’ve dealt with many injuries in their backcourt and wing position groups. Murphy, Jordan Hawkins, Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum and Herb Jones are among the players who have faced or are currently facing multi-week absences. Zion Williamson has also missed time.

They’ve had to rely on their depth in the early parts of the season without some of their key contributors. Two-way waiver claim Brandon Boston Jr. has started three games, impressing and averaging 12.7 points on a .508/.391/.875 shooting line in the early part of the season. Jose Alvarado, Javonte Green and Jaylen Nowell have also received significant playing time.

Murphy broke out over the past two seasons after being the No. 17 overall pick in 2021. Since his rookie season, he’s averaged 14.6 points, shooting 39.4% from three on 6.9 attempts per game in 136 appearances. He agreed to a four-year, $112M extension before the season.

Having Murphy back should help the Pelicans regain their footing in the Western Conference.