NBA: 3 Sleeper breakout star candidates heading into 2023-24

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 18: De'Andre Hunter #12 of the Atlanta Hawks dribbles down court during the second quarter of Game Two of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs between the Boston Celtics and the Atlanta Hawks at TD Garden on April 18, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

2 of 3

New Orleans Pelicans Trey Murphy III (Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports) /

Trey Murphy, New Orleans Pelicans

Trey Murphy has all the tools to be a Paul George-like star in the NBA.

Last year, Murphy took an enormous second-year jump, and for year three, I believe he’ll take another one. Murphy went from 5.4 PPG to 14.5 PPG, which was a result of him being more consistent with his game. Unlike in his rookie year, Murphy’s minutes were stable and he took that opportunity, proving to be a top 3-point shooter in the league. But what makes him even more exciting is the ridiculous athleticism he is yet to fully tap into.

At 6-foot-9, Trey Murphy has an unfair combo of height, length, shooting touch, and athletic ability. Last year he explored his shot creation, but this year he can take it up a notch. With the massive progression we’ve seen in his career, the Pels would be wise to give him some more on-ball reps. And with the constant Zion Williamson injuries, he’ll probably get the opportunity.

If he can perfect his handle and figure out how to get to his spots on the regular, I can see 20 PPG being extremely likely for Trey Murphy in the 2023-24 season.