Jake Madison here, the host of the daily Locked On Pelicans podcast, with your daily Locked On Pelicans newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Pelicans and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
Dejounte Murray’s Clutch Performance Propels Pelicans to Victory
Photo by Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
Dejounte Murray’s stellar performance in the New Orleans Pelicans’ 119-116 victory over the Dallas Mavericks showcased why the team acquired him. Murray’s 30-point outing, including 13 points in the fourth quarter, proved crucial in securing the win.
This game was particularly significant as it validated the Pelicans’ decision to trade for Murray. Last season, the team struggled in clutch situations, often failing to complete comebacks or close out games. Murray’s ability to take control in the final minutes addressed this weakness head-on.
In the clutch moments of the fourth quarter, Murray nearly outscored the entire Mavericks team single-handedly. His 10 points in the final five minutes compared to Dallas’ 11 demonstrated his impact when it mattered most. This performance highlighted Murray’s potential to be the closer the Pelicans have been seeking.
What’s even more encouraging is that Murray excelled without Zion Williamson on the court. While his best games have often come alongside Williamson, this outing proved he can lead the team effectively in Zion’s absence. This versatility is crucial for the Pelicans’ long-term success.
Murray’s improved three-point shooting is another positive development. He’s been more confident in his shot lately, particularly in catch-and-shoot situations. This improvement bodes well for his fit alongside Williamson and the team’s overall offensive strategy.
Trey Murphy’s Game-Winning Block
While Murray led the charge, Trey Murphy sealed the deal with a crucial block in the final seconds. Although there was some controversy over whether it was a goaltend, Murphy’s defensive play capped off an impressive all-around performance.
Murphy’s stat line of 24 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists, along with his defensive contributions, showcased his growth as a two-way player. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor while shouldering a significant offensive load is a promising sign for the Pelicans.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pelicans’ victory, tune into the Locked On Pelicans podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pelicans Podcast:
• Zion Williamson’s absence and the team’s approach to his recovery
• The Pelicans’ improved competitiveness as they get healthier
• Analysis of Trey Murphy’s offensive and defensive growth
Jan 4, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) greets Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) before a game at Frost Bank Center. | Scott Wachter/Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
I only get to write this column once per week, so while we’re still technically a game or two short of the halfway marker for most teams, I’m here with some second-quarter awards anyway!
These are honors for the second quarter and second quarter only; they aren’t predictive. Word count limitations mean I have no margin for a longer introduction. You get it.
Interior Defensive Player of the Quarter
Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs
When it comes to analyzing defense, it isn’t fair to lump wings and guards with bigs; it’s like comparing a sports car to a heavy-duty pickup truck when you can only buy one vehicle. Instead, I split Defensive Player of the Quarter into interior and perimeter editions.
My Interior Defensive Player of the Quarter won’t shock: it’s Victor Wembanyama. I could throw a bunch of advanced analytics at you to prove the case, but instead, I’d ask that you join me in prayer: Holy mother of basketballs, protect your children from the harm Wembanyama inflicts upon them.
Ok, fine, here’s one fun, if basic, number. In the season’s second quarter, Wemby had an outrageous 69 blocks. That’s 30 more than second-place Myles Turner, despite the fact that Turner played in three more games. Let’s not waste time here.
Mike Shearer (@bballispoetry) has written about the NBA full-time since 2021 at various and sundry places. For more from Mike, check out his Substack bestseller, Basketball Poetry, where he uses unnecessary metaphors and the occasional haiku to discuss the NBA’s happenings with an analytical lens.
Replay Trey Murphy’s blocked shot sealed the New Orleans Pelicans’ dramatic victory over the Dallas Mavericks, showcasing his defensive prowess and clutch performance. (NOLA.com)
Analysis The article discusses why being in NBA purgatory might doom the Zion era for the Pelicans, emphasizing the challenges of mediocrity and the need for strategic changes. (Pelican Brief)
Trade Potential trade targets for the New Orleans Pelicans by 2025 include both dream scenarios and realistic options, aiming to bolster the roster’s competitiveness. (Bleacher Report)
Analysis A re-draft of the 2021 NBA draft suggests Evan Mobley and Franz Wagner could challenge Cade Cunningham, implying a different trajectory for the Pelicans’ selections. (Bleacher Report)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Nick Richards Traded to Phoenix Suns: Fantasy Basketball Impact and Analysis
Jan 12, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards (4) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas/Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Phoenix Suns have acquired center Nick Richards from the Charlotte Hornets in a trade that sent shockwaves through the NBA. While not a blockbuster deal, this move has significant implications for fantasy basketball managers.
In exchange for Richards, the Hornets received Josh Okogie and three second-round picks, while the Suns also got a second-round pick in return. At first glance, it might seem like the Suns got a steal, but let’s take a closer look at what this means for Richards’ fantasy value.
Richards has been averaging 21 minutes per game this season, putting up 9 points and 7.5 rebounds with 1.2 blocks. These numbers have him ranked 205th in category leagues, which is far from impressive. However, the change of scenery could potentially boost his value.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Pelicans podcasts.
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