Herb Jones, Trey Murphy III considered “pillars of the organization”

Outside the Smoothie King Center, the two-time All-Star Zion Williamson is dominating the headlines alongside rookies Derrick Quinn and Jeremy Fears. Within the league circles and the rejuvenated New Orleans Pelicans practice field, even an interim head coach James Borrego gives in Herb Jones and Trey Murphy IIIVoices are what cut through all the noise. However, the two 2021 draft prospects aren’t barking orders or demanding the ball while dealing with trade rumors.

No, Jones is more likely to find himself directing a teammate through defensive coverage while Murphy III pulls the group aside after a set-breaking drill. Basically, the Pelicans are releasing the duo from the ground up most of the cultural environment in the midst of another injury-riddled season.

“Those guys were here. They are the pillars of this organization,” Borrego began. “They were doing this. Even before I was here, those guys were big shots.”

That history is important. Jones and Murphy were drafted and developed by the Pelicans, growing alongside a franchise that was looking for sustainable stability. While rosters and coaching staffs changed, both players remained a constant, quietly taking charge as expectations rose.

Now, according to Borrego, that continuity is being translated.

“Obviously, they’re growing into their roles. I’m really proud that they’ve stepped into these leadership roles,” Borrego said. “I see it in terms of communication, keeping us steady, not going too high or too low, just coming in and doing our job.”

When Jones talks about rotations, matchups or efforts, teammates tend to listen. Known around the league as ‘Not on Herb,’ the Alabama alum has been undeniable since day one of rookie camp. Murphy’s growth was more visible. Once viewed primarily as a scorer, the winger has expanded his game and his voice.

As his responsibilities on the floor have grown, so has his willingness to speak up in moments that call for clarity or composure. Borrego sees those moments as decisive.

“It’s in a timeout, to make sure we’re settled,” Borrego explained. “That’s leadership and we’ve needed it through the ups and downs this year.”

For a Pelicans team that has struggled to maintain composure at times, that stability has been critical.

The Pelicans are leaning on the 2021 class

Close losses, uneven defensive moves and lineup changes tested the group’s resolve. According to Borrego, Jones and Murphy helped prevent those challenges from growing.

“They kept us calm,” Borrego boasted. “I think it’s been steady leadership. They’ve both become more vocal in taking ownership of this team.”

That sense of ownership, Borrego emphasized, isn’t reserved for veterans or players with long resumes. It’s a requirement for teams hoping to build something sustainable.

“To be a good team in this league, you have to have players whether they’re young, old, vets, step into that role and take ownership of the team,” Borrego admitted. “They both do.”

Neither Jones nor Murphy seek the limelight, but within the organization their roles are clearly defined. They set the tone, stabilize and remind that leadership does not always come with a title. For the Pelicans, these pillars could prove to be just as important as any star when it comes to shaping the direction of the franchise, not just this season, but for years to come.