New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III is emerging as a rising star in the league. This season, the former first-round pick is posting career-best numbers in points, rebounds, and assists, despite his team’s struggles. Alongside star forward Zion Williamson, Murphy III is seen as a key part of the Pelicans’ future.
While New Orleans remains focused on building a competitive roster, Golden State Warriors veteran Draymond Green is less optimistic about the current state of the NBA. During last weekend’s All-Star Game in San Francisco, the four-time champion openly criticized the modern game.
The former Defensive Player of the Year described today’s basketball as “boring,” arguing that it relies too heavily on three-point shooting. Murphy III, however, disagreed with Green’s take and shared his perspective on the Kevin O’Connor Show.
“I don’t agree with that,” Murphy III said. “I think the game’s fun. I still have fun watching basketball; I have fun playing basketball. The trade deadline made ratings go up a lot, so people are more intrigued and tuned in.”
“The last two weeks before All-Star might be a little boring — everybody’s just trying to make All-Star — but the NBA being boring in general? I don’t know about that for sure.”
One could argue that the Warriors dynasty played a pivotal role in the rise of three-point shooting in today’s NBA, with Steph Curry and Klay Thompson among the greatest shooters in history.
By his own account, Trey Murphy III is already among the league’s top three-point shooters.
Early in his career, he became one of just five players in Pelicans history to make over 200 three-pointers in a single season. Standing 6-foot-9, his combination of size and athleticism makes him a nightmare matchup for defenders. He also showcased his athleticism by finishing second in the Slam Dunk Contest a few years ago.
Before the season began, Murphy III secured his future with the Pelicans by signing a four-year contract extension.
