The New Orleans Pelicans are poised to receive a major boost as star guard Dejounte Murray is expected to return to the lineup for Wednesday night’s game against the Toronto Raptors. Murray has been sidelined since fracturing his left hand in the Pelicans’ season-opening victory over the Chicago Bulls on October 23rd.
However, the hand injury was not the only challenge Murray faced during his time away from the court. The 26-year-old revealed that his mother suffered a stroke just before the start of the regular season, prompting him to leave the team to be by her side.
“It was tough to leave and go deal with that. As she got better, she wanted me to come play,” Murray shared, reflecting on his decision to suit up for the season opener despite his mother’s health scare.
Looking back, Murray believes that the hand injury he sustained in that game was a sign from above. “God was telling me, ‘Nah, you need to stay with your mom,'” he explained. With his mother’s condition improving, Murray is now “healthy and ready to help this team.”
A Timely Return for the Struggling Pelicans
The Pelicans have desperately missed Murray’s presence on the court, as they have stumbled to a disappointing 4-14 record since their 2-0 start to the season. Injuries have plagued the team, with all five starters missing time at various points.
Most notably, franchise cornerstone Zion Williamson has been out for 12 games due to a hamstring injury, while defensive stalwart Herbert Jones has been hampered by a shoulder strain. To make matters worse, Brandon Ingram’s status for the Raptors game is in question after he missed practice on Tuesday with calf soreness.
Amidst the adversity, Murray’s return provides a glimmer of hope for the Pelicans faithful. In his lone appearance this season, the dynamic guard stuffed the stat sheet with 14 points, 10 assists, and 8 rebounds, showcasing his all-around impact on the game.
“I don’t care how many games we’ve lost. I just know every time I step on the floor I feel like we can win games,” Murray declared, exuding confidence in his ability to help turn the Pelicans’ fortunes around.
A Closer Look at Murray’s Journey
Acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Atlanta Hawks this past offseason, Dejounte Murray was expected to form a formidable backcourt duo with CJ McCollum and provide the Pelicans with another dynamic playmaker to complement Williamson and Ingram.
Murray’s path to stardom has been marked by resilience and perseverance. Drafted 29th overall by the San Antonio Spurs in 2016, he quickly established himself as one of the league’s most promising young guards. However, an ACL tear in 2018 forced him to miss the entire 2018-19 season.
Undeterred, Murray returned stronger than ever, earning his first All-Star selection in 2022 and leading the league in steals per game. His breakout performance caught the attention of the Pelicans, who saw him as the missing piece to their championship puzzle.
The Road Ahead
As Murray prepares to take the court against the Raptors, the Pelicans organization and fans alike are eager to see how his return will impact the team’s trajectory. With a healthy Murray back in the fold, New Orleans will look to climb out of the Western Conference cellar and make a push for the playoffs.
The road ahead won’t be easy, as the Pelicans face a daunting schedule filled with playoff contenders. However, Murray’s competitive spirit and unwavering belief in his team’s potential could be the spark they need to turn their season around.
“I’m ready to hoop. Play for my mother — she’s going to be watching,” Murray shared, his motivation clear as he prepares for his long-awaited return. “I’m ready to compete, bring that winning spirit.”
As the basketball world watches, Dejounte Murray is set to embark on the next chapter of his remarkable journey, with his sights set on leading the Pelicans to new heights. With his mother’s love and support fueling his fire, there’s no telling what this gifted young star will achieve as he steps back onto the hardwood.
