All-NBA conversations typically belong to well-established suspects, brand-name stars who have captured the discussion for the better part of two decades, even if those All-Stars are having a bad year. LeBron James and James Harden still remain at that level of talent. However, James Borrego’s new-look New Orleans Pelicans need to make a run for Trey Murphy III to join the club. The 25-year-old has been quietly building a statistical argument that rivals and surpasses the usual suspects in many areas.
This is not an exaggeration. This year’s figures show that it is time to make room for the Trigga tray. Designated stars with all-world resumes can act as one-man shows, shooting lights out and protecting the ball. Murphy III’s production, 22.6% of his field goals are unassisted, is going well. The swingman is shooting 38.6% from three-point range, sporting a 59.8 true shooting percentage, and can boast a 2.53 assist-to-turnover ratio on a 25.4% usage rate since New Year’s Day.
On the season, Murphy III is contributing 21.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.8 steals. In 2026, he is averaging 24.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.9 steals. Only 12 other players can say they are 22-5-4 over the last eight weeks. Luka Doncic, Kevin Durant and Cade Cunningham top that list. Exactly 22 players have averaged 21 points and 3.5 assists, making teammates better, and have played more than 45 games this season, further breaking down the All-NBA list.
The Pelicans have nothing to lose by gushing about Trey Murphy III’s speed during March Madness. If Trigga Trey is named to the All-NBA Third Team, his next contract and the city’s reputation will get a significant boost. If not, the Pelicans have four potential All-Stars returning next season with something to prove in Murphy III, Zion Williamson, Dejounte Murray and surprisingly great Saddiq Bey.
More than a few coaches will be calling the front office wanting to work with that core. Each of them will have to explain how they will maximize Trey Murphy III’s prime years. His All-Star potential eventually developed into All-NBA expectations.
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