Dejounte Murray Returns: Pelicans Guard Back After Achilles Injury

METAIRIE, La. – After a grueling 13-month recovery from a ruptured right Achilles tendon, Dejounte Murray returned to the court for the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night, scoring 13 points in a 113-109 victory over the Golden State Warriors. The return marked a significant milestone for the 29-year-old guard, who faced considerable uncertainty about his future following the injury and a subsequent overhaul of the Pelicans’ front office.

Murray, who was injured on January 31, 2025, played 25 minutes in his season debut, converting a layup within the first 20 seconds. He finished the night 5-of-11 from the field, adding three assists, two rebounds, a steal and five turnovers. While acknowledging the rust, Murray expressed satisfaction with his performance and eagerness to build momentum.

“I’ve been through a lot,” Murray said after the game, as reported by the Associated Press. “I puffed out my chest, kept my head high and smiled. I’m ready to see where this takes me.”

The Pelicans’ coaching staff was equally encouraged by Murray’s return. Head coach James Borrego praised Murray’s performance, stating, “He seemed to be the same as before, as if he hadn’t missed anything. For a first match, I felt him present on both sides of the pitch. He was fantastic. I’m really proud and happy for him.”

Murray’s return comes at a challenging time for the Pelicans, who currently hold a losing record and face an uphill battle for playoff contention. The team underwent significant changes since Murray was acquired two summers ago, with the previous front office regime being replaced. Despite the team’s struggles, Murray remains optimistic about his future and the potential for growth.

“There’s a lot of excuses for a chump to be like, ‘Nah. I ain’t playing,’” Murray said on Monday, according to NBA.com. “And I’m the opposite of that. What I’ve been through, what I go through, I use that all to fuel the fire.”

He emphasized his commitment to the game and the city of New Orleans, stating, “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.”

Zion Williamson, who led the Pelicans with 26 points in Tuesday’s victory, highlighted Murray’s impact beyond the stat sheet. “He has a way of just keeping everybody engaged, even when you get frustrated,” Williamson noted.

The Pelicans’ victory was celebrated in the locker room, with teammates showering Murray with support and encouragement. Borrego described the scene as “a massive celebration” and praised Murray’s resilience throughout his rehabilitation process.

Despite the positive reception, Murray is already looking ahead to the remaining 23 games of the season. “It was cool but I’m ready for the next game,” he said, expressing his hunger to contribute and improve. “I’m hungry. I’m starving.”

Murray’s return provides a much-needed boost to the Pelicans’ backcourt, adding a dynamic playmaker and experienced veteran to a young roster. While the team’s playoff hopes remain slim, Murray’s presence is expected to elevate the level of competition and provide valuable leadership.

Prior to his injury, Murray averaged 17.5 points, 7.4 assists, and 6.5 rebounds in 31 games for the Pelicans during the 2024-25 season. He had previously averaged 22.5 points per game with the Atlanta Hawks during the 2023-24 season before suffering the Achilles rupture.

The Pelicans’ decision to acquire Murray two seasons ago was met with scrutiny, particularly in light of a subsequent trade that sent a 2026 first-round draft pick to the Atlanta Hawks. However, Murray remains focused on the present and determined to make a positive impact on the court.

As Murray embarks on this new chapter with the Pelicans, he carries with him a renewed sense of purpose and a unwavering commitment to the game he loves. His return represents not only a personal triumph but also a source of optimism for a team seeking to rebuild and compete in the challenging Western Conference.