The New Orleans Pelicans were missing Zion Williamson (hip contusion), Brandon Ingram (concussion protocols) and Herbert Jones (knee hyperextension) on Tuesday night and yet they were still able to beat the Dallas Mavericks in a tight 113-111 game.
This was a massive statement from the Pelicans, showing that they could take on one of the West’s best teams and find a victory even without their most important stars.
Trey Murphy III just couldn't miss tonight. 🎯 pic.twitter.com/fUNM5cyrOT
— theScore Bet (@theScoreBet) October 26, 2022
In the absence of Williamson, Ingram, and Jones, another player stepped up and had quite literally a perfect night.
Trey Murphy III showed his power with 22 points, 5 rebounds, and going 4-of-4 from the three-point line.
He also shot a perfect 8-of-8 from the field.
With players like Murphy ready to shine even brighter this season, the Pelicans are poised for greatness.
Murphy’s Night
The Pelicans now have a 3-1 record, which is a great start to the year.
This hasn’t just happened because of Williamson and Ingram, the entire crew is doing well so far.
CJ McCollum is again showing why he was such a smart acquisition.
Jonas Valanciunas is a superior big man, Jose Alvarado is becoming one of the most exciting young men in the league, Devonte’ Graham and Larry Nance Jr are making the bench even stronger.
And, of course, Murphy is rising through the ranks too.
All in all, this team has more than a few aces up its sleeves.
This makes them very competitive and able to secure wins, even when their most beloved players are sitting out.
However, fans are a bit concerned about Williamson missing games so early in the season.
They are fearful that he could become injury-prone again and miss large stretches of the year.
Hopefully, that won’t happen but right now the team is able to get by without him.
NEXT: Will Zion Williamson Be An MVP Candidate This Season?