What the Larry Nance injury news means for the Pelicans

Naji Marshall and Trey Murphy III need to step up for the Pelicans

There might not be a significant bench upgrade out there before the trade deadline, but the Pelican might have better in-house options anyway.

Count me as someone who thought both Naji Marshall and Trey Murphy III were going to be bigger contributors this season after the way they both looked in Summer League and preseason.

I know I shouldn’t get sucked in by the preseason, but both looked to have skills that would fit in and I thought they’d be a bigger part of the rotation.

Murphy III has played in four games in a row after a long streak of inactives, and Marshall played 20 minutes in the win over Houston and played well, notching 14 points, three rebounds, two blocks, two assists and a steal.

Marshall seems like the guy who can benefit the most here, as he can provide some of the energy and defense that the Pelicans will miss with Hart gone. If the Pels don’t make another move, I could see these guys splitting NAW’s until one of them stands out.

I’m hoping that’s what happens, because the Pelicans have a very good starting five, so if they can get anything from their bench they will be in good shape.