Dejounte Murray Faces Possible Hand Fracture at New Orleans Pelicans’ Season Debut

Dejounte Murray, the New Orleans Pelicans’ guard, potentially fractured his left hand during the season’s opening game on Wednesday night, a 123-111 triumph over the Chicago Bulls.

Murray’s Impressive Start for the Pelicans

In his initial appearance for the Pelicans, Murray, who came to the team via a trade with the Atlanta Hawks in the offseason, impressed with 14 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds. This performance marked him as the third player in Pelican history to deliver 10 assists in his team debut, following in the footsteps of Elfrid Payton (2018) and Baron Davis (2002), despite only one turnover on the night.

The Injury Incident

The injury seemed to occur approximately two minutes before the end of the fourth quarter. Murray, attempting a 3-pointer from the top of the key, was fouled by Zach LaVine and took a fall, clutching his left hand. Despite apparent pain, he rejected assistance from a fellow player trying to help him up using his injured hand. Murray managed to make it to the free throw line, scoring 2 out of 3 shots, before being substituted with only a minute left in the game.

Murray’s Uncertain Participation in the Game

Murray’s participation in the game against the Bulls was uncertain due to his absence from Tuesday’s practice for personal reasons. However, he was cleared to play just before the game began. In his previous season with the Hawks, Murray had only two games with 10 assists and one or fewer turnovers.

Unfortunate Absence of Zion Williamson

The potential injury to Murray is a further blow to the Pelicans, who were already without their star forward Zion Williamson. Williamson was omitted from Wednesday’s lineup due to sickness, adding to the team’s challenges.

In the forthcoming days, the team and its fans will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on Murray’s injury and hoping for a swift recovery.