In its first earnings release since the announcement that it would be acquired by Freeport-McMoRan (FCX -1.57%), McMoRan Exploration (NYSE: MMR) is widely expected to turn a net loss for the fourth quarter and full year of 2012. Investors of both companies will certainly be on the lookout for news on MMR's Davy Jones well off the Gulf Coast. News on either side of neutral will likely have an affect on both share prices. Stay tuned for Friday's release but check out the video below for a more detailed preview from Motley Fool energy and materials analyst, Taylor Muckerman.