Trey Murphy III has firmly entered the trade conversation as the February 5 NBA trade deadline approaches, with the Golden State Warriors and Portland Trail Blazers circling the New Orleans Pelicans wing. Multiple executives around the league believe landing the elite 3-and-D forward could require a package similar to what the Memphis Grizzlies received for Desmond Bane, making this one of the season’s hottest trade rumors.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Trey Murphy III is averaging 21.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists over 25 games this season for New Orleans
- The 25-year-old is shooting 48.9% from the field and 36% from three-point range in his fifth NBA season
- Murphy signed a four-year, $112 million rookie extension with the Pelicans in October 2024
- Both the Warriors and Blazers have made inquiries about the elite wing defender as they look to strengthen their rosters
Murphy Drawing Interest from Two West Teams
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According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, the Golden State Warriors have been enamored with Murphy since his draft eligibility. However, team insiders indicate the Warriors may prioritize a pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo before committing their full trade capital to the Pelicans wing.
The Portland Trail Blazers represent another significant player in the Murphy sweepstakes. Multiple team executives have circled Portland as a potential buyer, with some believing the asking price could reach or exceed what the Orlando Magic surrendered for Desmond Bane during the offseason.
Contract Details and Performance Stats
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Murphy has developed into one of the New Orleans Pelicans’ most valuable players. The Virginia graduate is in the fifth year of his NBA career and earned a substantial extension last October that keeps him under contract through 2028-29.
| Stat Category | 2025-26 Season |
| Points Per Game | 21.1 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 6.5 |
| Assists Per Game | 3.5 |
| FG% / 3P% | 48.9% / 36.0% |
| Minutes Per Game | 35.5 |
Murphy’s four-year extension worth $112 million averages out to $28 million annually, with the final year of his contract running through 2028-29. In today’s NBA salary cap environment, those numbers reflect a team-friendly deal that makes him an attractive target for contending squads.
The Price Tag Stalling Trades
Despite widespread interest across the league, the Pelicans are unlikely to part with Murphy, according to team executives. The New Orleans front office views him as a cornerstone piece moving forward, even as the franchise navigates a difficult start to the season.
Multiple sources indicate that any trade package would need to match what the Orlando Magic gave the Memphis Grizzlies to acquire Desmond Bane. That deal involved Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks, and a top-two protected pick swap. Such a substantial asking price may keep Murphy in New Orleans beyond the deadline.
Elite 3-and-D Profile Attracts Contenders
Murphy’s defensive prowess and shooting ability make him an ideal fit for teams looking to enhance their wing rotation. At 6’8″ with elite length and athleticism, he represents the prototype wing defender teams covet in the modern NBA.
His 1.7 steals per game this season showcases his defensive impact, while his three-point shooting at 36% on high volume demonstrates his floor-spacing ability. For contending teams, Murphy offers the defensive versatility and shooting stroke needed to compete at the highest level during playoffs.
Will Murphy’s Status Change Before February?
The February 5 trade deadline will determine whether competing interests finally convince the Pelicans to explore a deal. While New Orleans’ current struggles might suggest a rebuild, team management has publicly stated their preference to keep their star assets intact and retool around their existing core through free agency and the draft.
For the Warriors and Blazers, the pursuit of Murphy represents their best chance to acquire an All-Star caliber wing in the mid-season market. Whether they are willing to match the Desmond Bane price tag will ultimately determine if this trade rumor becomes reality before the deadline arrives.
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.