The New Orleans Pelicans, currently struggling with a 16-42 record and positioned near the bottom of the Western Conference, will witness a significant moment on Tuesday night. Dejounte Murray is returning to the court for the first time in over 13 months during a game against the Golden State Warriors at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans, facing a tough rebuilding season with a new front office, coaching changes, roster shifts, and a lengthy injury list, have not realistically contended for the playoffs. Nevertheless, Murray’s comeback offers a bright and hopeful development amid the challenges.
Murray was declared available for the game, marking the end of a long recovery after he tore his right Achilles tendon in a January 31, 2025, contest versus the Boston Celtics. This injury followed an earlier broken hand that caused him to miss multiple games during his first season with New Orleans. Murray expressed his enthusiasm and commitment to his return, making it clear that his motivation goes beyond excuses tied to the team’s current standing.
I’m here, I love New Orleans, I love the people,
Murray said.
This is the reason I’m coming back. I’m not one of those guys like, I’m paid, I could get an extra 6-7 months, or our team is 14th in the West. There are a lot of excuses for a chump to say, ‘No, I ain’t playing.’ I am the opposite of that.
– Dejounte Murray
While Murray will likely face a minutes restriction as he gradually regains his form, his participation alone is a major step forward for both the player and the Pelicans organization.
Overcoming Adversity Beyond Injury
Murray’s story extends beyond physical rehabilitation. In a recent interview with The Athletic’s Mirin Fader, he revealed how personal hardships compounded the difficulty of his longest injury layoff. Shortly before the season began, his mother suffered a stroke. Within weeks, he also lost a cousin and faced his uncle’s overdose. These tragedies followed a broken hand and the eventual Achilles tear, making the last 13 months an especially trying period for the guard.
It was literally the worst three months of my professional career on and off the floor,
Murray admitted.
I was never able to focus on basketball.
– Dejounte Murray
After his tendon injury, early rehabilitation was discouraging, especially when a doctor questioned whether Murray’s career could continue due to difficulty performing basic exercises like calf raises. However, Murray’s determination, molded by a childhood surrounded by challenging environments, drove him forward.
I grew up around crime, violence and negativity my whole life,
he explained.
The energy, I don’t like being around that. What’s the alternative? How are we gonna get through this? What’s the plan?
– Dejounte Murray
With persistence, he regained strength, steadily progressing through his rehab. Murray’s resolve is summarized in his own words about the comeback.
I’m gonna get up every single time,
he said.
What I’ve been through, what I go through, I use that all to fuel the fire. I feel like my best basketball is ahead of me.
– Dejounte Murray
The Value Murray Brings to the Pelicans
Dejounte Murray has earned a reputation as one of the NBA’s dependable two-way guards across eight seasons with the San Antonio Spurs, Atlanta Hawks, and now the Pelicans. He has averaged 15.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, highlighting his ability on both ends of the court. Selected as an All-Star during his time with San Antonio in 2022, Murray’s experience is invaluable for a New Orleans squad that has struggled, particularly in the backcourt.
The team has been dealing with inconsistency in guard play since trading Jose Alvarado at the deadline. Rookie Jeremiah Fears has been tasked with a heavier role than expected, while Jordan Poole’s position remains unsettled. Murray’s leadership and skill in controlling the offense will provide crucial stability to this young roster.
Interim head coach James Borrego emphasized the significance of Murray’s return beyond just his on-court contributions.
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…to compete…to be out there with his teammates. He wants to win.
– James Borrego
Murray’s Return Marks a Turning Point for the Pelicans
Dejounte Murray has faced more challenges in the past year than most athletes encounter in a career. His injuries were only part of the story, which also involved profound personal losses and emotional setbacks. Despite everything, he maintained his commitment to returning, engaging daily with rehabilitation and staying connected with teammates and support groups.
The upcoming game against the Golden State Warriors represents the culmination of that effort and a chance to showcase what Murray believes is still his best basketball ahead. For the Pelicans franchise and fans in New Orleans, his return offers renewed hope and encouragement as they navigate a difficult season.
“I want to represent for New Orleans” – @DejounteMurray on his return 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/MufLq97OfK
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) February 24, 2026
Tuesday night: @DejounteMurray returns 💪 pic.twitter.com/SZo7DGelxp
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) February 23, 2026
"He's close. I'd say in the next week, he is back on the floor playing NBA games which is amazing"
— James Borrego on Dejounte Murray's return from injury pic.twitter.com/0p2I6eUxWO
— Pelicans Film Room (@PelsFilmRoom) February 19, 2026
