New Orleans Pelicans' Guard Dejounte Murray Makes Debut Return

In a much-anticipated return, New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray has confirmed that he will make his season debut on Tuesday against the Golden State Warriors. Murray, who has been recovering from a ruptured Achilles he suffered during the 2024-25 campaign, expressed his eagerness to hit the court again. "Yes sir," he told reporters with an infectious enthusiasm when asked if he would play in the upcoming game. "Let's do it!"

Murray's Recovery and Outlook

The 29-year-old Murray, who previously had a standout career, averaged impressive stats of 17.5 points, 7.4 assists, and 6.5 rebounds per game during his debut season with the Pelicans last year. Despite the challenges faced during that season, he managed to maintain significant contributions on the court, shooting 39.3 percent from the field and 29.9 percent from the three-point line.

This season, however, marks a turning point for Murray, who is returning from an injury that cut short his previous strong performance with the Atlanta Hawks. Before his injury in January 2025, he was putting up excellent numbers, averaging 22.5 points per game. Now, having fully rehabilitated, Murray feels rejuvenated and expressed confidence in his current mental, spiritual, and physical state as he prepares to rejoin the team.

Team Dynamics and Current Standing

As Murray prepares to reenter the lineup, it’s important to note that the Pelicans are currently grappling with a challenging season. With a record of 16-42, the team isn't in contention for the playoffs, raising questions about their future direction. The franchise took a significant risk earlier this year, trading an unprotected first-round pick for the 2026 NBA Draft to secure rookie Derik Queen, who has been performing solidly with averages of 12.3 points and 7.3 rebounds per game.

This strategic move to draft Queen was scrutinized at the time, and it could potentially cost the Pelicans a chance at landing a high-impact player like Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, or Cam Boozer in the upcoming draft. If the Hawks, who own the Pelicans' 2026 pick, end up with a top-three selection, the ramifications of this trade will undoubtedly resonate within the franchise.

Murray's Focus on Winning

Despite the looming uncertainties and critiques surrounding the Pelicans, Murray remains steadfastly focused on contributing to his team's success. "I'm just excited to go get a win," he stated emphatically. His dedication to winning despite the team's struggles indicates a maturity and commitment that can serve as an example for his teammates. Murray's resilience and drive to succeed could be a much-needed spark for a team looking to regroup and potentially challenge the odds for the rest of the season.

Conclusion

Dejounte Murray's return is a beacon of hope for the New Orleans Pelicans amidst a difficult season. As he prepares to face the Golden State Warriors, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how his presence influences the team dynamics and performance on the court. While the Pelicans may not be in a prime playoff position, Murray’s determination to win and the lessons learned from his recent challenges could instill renewed energy within the struggling franchise. Tuesday's game is not just a personal comeback for Murray; it marks a significant opportunity for the Pelicans to find their footing going forward.