The NBA’s Three-Point Contest is set to take place on Saturday, February 14. It is a traditional All-Star Weekend event established back in 1986.
The official participants for the upcoming Three-Point Contest are Devin Booker, Kon Knueppel, Damian Lillard, Tyrese Maxey, Donovan Mitchell, Jamal Murray, Bobby Portis Jr., and Norman Powell. The majority of the entrants are 2026 All-Star selections.
While the field of players is deserving of an invitation to compete in the annual event, it can be argued that New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III was snubbed.
With a total of 166, Murphy is ranked sixth in the league for total three-pointers made this season. Out of the official participants, only Knueppel and Maxey have sunk more deep-range shots than Murphy.
At media availability, Murphy expressed that he was not invited to participate in the contest but would have accepted a spot.
“I would’ve participated if I was invited for sure,” said Murphy. When asked whether he was snubbed, he replied, “I’ll let you be the judge of that.”
A Career-Best Year
Murphy was drafted with the 17th pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. His role with the Pelicans has steadily increased from year to year, showing an upward trend of productivity on the offensive end.
While Murphy will not be participating in an All-Star Weekend event, the Pelicans forward has made a serious case for a future All-Star selection. Murphy is averaging a career-best 22.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.8 assists over 51 games.
Murphy continues to demonstrate leadership on the Pelicans, surpassing teammate Zion Williamson in points per game. Last week, the 25-year-old scored a career-high 44 points during New Orleans’ overtime loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.
In terms of contract, Murphy is signed to a four-year, $112 million rookie contract extension. The deal expires at the end of the 2028–2029 season.
With a 15-40 record, the Pelicans hold the 14th spot in the Western Conference standings. While not technically eliminated from playoff contention, the franchise is likely to experience another year in the draft lottery.
Overall, Murphy has shown the potential to break out as a franchise player in the league.
For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.