Dejounte Murray will make his first appearance in more than a year when the New Orleans Pelicans take on the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday. This game marks Murray’s highly anticipated season debut following a lengthy recovery.
Injury History and Trade Background
Murray has been sidelined since last January due to a ruptured right Achilles tendon, adding to previous missed time caused by a broken left hand. New Orleans acquired Murray from the Atlanta Hawks in a trade that involved sending Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., Cody Zeller, and two first-round draft picks to Atlanta.
Performance Before the Injury
During the 2022-23 season, Murray played 31 games, posting averages of 17.5 points, 7.4 assists, and 6.5 rebounds per game, while hitting 39.3% of his shots from the field. His absence has been a significant factor for the Pelicans this season.
Recent Changes Within the Pelicans Organization
Since Murray last took the court, the Pelicans have experienced considerable shifts, including a new front office, the trade of long-time star Brandon Ingram, and the dismissal of head coach Willie Green. This transformation marks a new chapter for the franchise as Murray returns.
Upcoming Schedule and Outlook
The Pelicans will continue their season with several key matchups, including games against the Utah Jazz and Los Angeles Clippers. Murray’s return is expected to strengthen New Orleans’ lineup as they navigate these contests.
