Dejounte Murray is anticipated to play for the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday when they host the Golden State Warriors, marking his first appearance after more than 13 months of recovery from a ruptured right Achilles tendon. This highly awaited return comes after Murray missed the majority of last season due to injury setbacks.
Injury History and Previous Season Impact
Murray joined the Pelicans in a trade with Atlanta before last season, which involved sending Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., Cody Zeller, and two first-round picks in 2025 and 2027 to the Hawks. Despite this significant acquisition, he was limited to just 31 games last season after suffering a broken left hand in the opening game. His season ended prematurely on January 31, 2025, when he tore his Achilles tendon in a game against Boston.
Changes in Pelicans’ Team Dynamics Since Murray’s Last Game
Since Murray last laced up for New Orleans, the team has undergone major transformations. The front office has been overhauled, led by Joe Dumars. The Pelicans also traded away longtime star Brandon Ingram and parted ways with head coach Willie Green. This new leadership has focused on developing younger players like rookie guard Jeremiah Fears, as the team currently struggles near the bottom of the Western Conference standings.
Murray’s Determination and Mindset Ahead of Return
Following a practice on Monday, Murray expressed a strong desire to compete despite the challenges he has faced.
“There’s a lot of excuses for a chump to be like, ‘Nah, I ain’t playing,’ and I’m the opposite of that,
Dejounte Murray said after practice Monday.
“But for me, I love the game and I put myself in a position to be able to say I want to go out and play for not only my family and organization but also the City of New Orleans. I feel like my best basketball is ahead of me.”
Coaching Staff’s Perspective on Murray’s Role
Pelicans interim coach James Borrego praised Murray’s dedication and willingness to return, though he cautioned that it may be too soon to fully define Murray’s role within the franchise’s long-term plans. While Borrego appeared open to the idea of Murray playing on Tuesday, he did not confirm it outright.
Borrego highlighted Murray’s character and commitment:
“It speaks to his character — that he cares,
Borrego said.
I’m not saying that everybody coming off this injury would even play right now. This kid wants to play. He wants to be out there on the floor. He wants to compete. He wants to be out there with his teammates. He wants to win.”
Murray’s Outlook on Team and Leadership
Murray maintains a positive relationship with front office head Joe Dumars and the coaching staff but emphasizes that performance on the court matters most.
“It doesn’t matter who’s in the front office, who’s the coaching staff. We’ve got to go out on the floor and play hard, and play the right way.”
Significance of Murray’s Return for the Pelicans’ Season
Dejounte Murray’s return represents not only a personal comeback but also an important moment for a Pelicans team in transition, seeking to climb out of the Western Conference’s lower ranks. His leadership, talent, and competitive spirit have the potential to energize the young core and contribute to the franchise’s rebuilding efforts. What lies ahead will depend on how quickly Murray regains his form and adapts within the evolving team dynamic under new front office leadership and coaching.
