New Orleans Pelicans All-Star guard Dejounte Murray is poised to return to action Tuesday night at home against the Golden State Warriors, marking his season debut. Murray emphasized the importance of competing hard for the fans each night, representing New Orleans with pride, and committing fully to the remainder of the season. A key factor in his comeback is the longstanding relationship he shares with interim head coach James Borrego, which dates back to the 2016 NBA Draft.
When Murray was selected 29th overall by the San Antonio Spurs in 2016, Borrego was an assistant coach under Gregg Popovich. Borrego’s tenure with the Spurs spanned from 2015 to 2018 before he accepted the head coaching position with the Charlotte Hornets in 2018, forging the foundation for their current partnership.
“When I was drafted in 2016, he was in San Antonio. We had a great relationship then and even better relationship now. I am excited to go play hard for him” — Dejounte Murray on James Borrego
How Borrego’s Familiarity Eases Murray’s Return
For athletes recovering from major injuries, comfort and familiarity with coaching staff are crucial for a smooth reintegration. Murray benefits greatly from this with Borrego, who already understands his style and strengths.
The offensive sets Borrego has implemented with the Pelicans closely reflect schemes used during his Spurs days, particularly the high pick-and-roll plays that were central to Murray’s success. This system allows Murray the freedom to read the defense and make decisions on the fly, mirroring the environment where he thrived most.
Murray’s peak performance came in the 2021-22 season with San Antonio, when he averaged 21.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 9.2 assists, earning an All-Star selection. That season, the Spurs relied heavily on Murray’s ability to execute screen-and-roll plays, a structure that Borrego has effectively reintroduced to the Pelicans’ offense.
Defensive Leadership and Intensity Murray Brings Back
During Murray’s second season with the Spurs, when Borrego was still on staff, he earned All-Defensive Second Team honors. His defensive tenacity at the point of attack is a quality that the Pelicans desperately need, as the team currently ranks near the bottom of the league in defensive rating.
If Murray regains that level of defensive intensity, it could provide an immediate lift in the Pelicans’ ability to stop opponents, addressing one of their most pressing weaknesses.
Murray as a Court Extension of Coach Borrego
One of the most valuable contributions a point guard can offer is serving as an extension of the head coach. Murray’s vocal leadership on the floor becomes even more effective given his strong rapport with Borrego. This mutual trust strengthens communication and on-court execution, potentially enhancing the team’s cohesion and performance.
With Murray’s return, New Orleans gains not only a skilled scorer and defender but also a leader who embodies the coaching philosophy, creating optimism about the Pelicans’ prospects as they aim to improve in a competitive Western Conference.
"Every game is a championship game. Give the fans what they want, their money's worth, a team that is worth watching. That is going out and competing on both ends, playing together, playing with passion and pride"
— Dejounte Murray on his goals for the rest of the season pic.twitter.com/yCcsNHzn82
— Pelicans Film Room (@PelsFilmRoom) February 23, 2026
"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 'I'm not playing'. I am the opposite of that… I want to represent of New Orleans"
— Dejounte Murray on New Orleans pic.twitter.com/NOB1LzV3IC
— Pelicans Film Room (@PelsFilmRoom) February 23, 2026
"When I was drafted in 2016, he was in San Antonio. We had a great relationship then and even better relationship now. I am excited to go play hard for him"
— Dejounte Murray on James Borrego pic.twitter.com/4pFBS8idsa
— Pelicans Film Room (@PelsFilmRoom) February 23, 2026
