Frustrated statement from the New Orleans Pelicans star after the Kings’ loss

The New Orleans Pelicans’ frustration is growing as they lose their third straight game and fall to 5-21 on the season. It’s been an adventure with ups and downs for Trey Murphy III, who started this year on the sidelines after suffering a hamstring injury during training camp in October. Murphy III agreed to a contract extension with the Pelicans before the start of the season, signing a four-year, $112 million contract to become a cornerstone of the team’s future.

With injuries to Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, most thought he would get a chance to shine offensively this season, but it’s been a roller coaster ride. On Thursday, the former first-round pick seemed poised for a monster performance, scoring 16 points in the first quarter against the Sacramento Kings.

However, Murphy III only scored five points over the remainder of the game, including attempting just six shots after the first quarter. In the locker room, a visibly frustrated Murphy III spoke to the media about his feelings about the lack of production after the fast start.

“I just tried to play the right way, I guess,” he told reporters in the locker room. “I’m trying to find my chances elsewhere and be aggressive. I don’t know what else to tell you.”

Murphy III is averaging 18.2 points on 42% shooting from the field this season, but given the Pelicans’ injury situation, his lack of shooting seems baffling. The former Virginia star has attempted more than 20 shots just once in the last 10 games, despite Ingram and Williamson being unavailable to do so.

New Orleans sits last in the league in points this season, and the fact that Murphy III isn’t making shots contributes to their poor record. With both Williamson and Ingram out indefinitely, the Pelicans’ only chance to win is to get Murphy III involved offensively.

The Pelicans visit the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night.

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