Dejounte Murray injures hand in Pelicans' season opener against Bulls
- Dejounte Murray was injured in the fourth quarter during New Orleans' season-opening victory over the Chicago Bulls, where he scored 14 points and recorded 10 assists.
- Pelicans guard CJ McCollum noted that Murray continued to play through his injury, indicating he had been experiencing discomfort in his left hand.
- The team's further assessment of Murray's injury is pending, and his return timeline remains uncertain, raising concerns about the team's performance without him.
On October 23, 2024, in the United States, New Orleans Pelicans point guard Dejounte Murray suffered a left hand injury during the final moments of his team's season opener against the Chicago Bulls, which they won 123-111. Murray had an outstanding performance, contributing 14 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds while handling the ball carefully, with only one turnover throughout the game. His on-court presence was crucial, especially in the absence of star player Zion Williamson, who was out due to an illness. CJ McCollum, a teammate, expressed concern about Murray’s condition, revealing that Murray had expressed discomfort but chose to continue playing. McCollum noted that Murray suggested his hand didn’t feel right during the game, emphasizing the player's commitment to the team's success. After the game, Murray did not speak to the media, indicating that the injury might have been severe enough to warrant immediate attention. Murray, acquired in a trade from the Atlanta Hawks before the season, was a key addition for New Orleans. Following the injury, the Pelicans planned to evaluate the extent of Murray's injury through imaging. His uncertain timeline for recovery places additional pressure on the team as they prepare for their upcoming games. As the Pelicans embark on a tough four-game road trip, Murray's potential absence raises concerns about how the team will perform without him, given his significant contributions in the opening game. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring updates regarding his health and the team's adaptations moving forward.