NEW ORLEANS — The New Orleans Pelicans have suffered yet another significant blow this season as guard Dejounte Murray is set to miss the remainder of the NBA season due to a torn Achilles tendon. This devastating injury occurred during the Pelicans' closely contested game against the Boston Celtics on January 31, 2025, which ended with the Pelicans losing 118-116.
The injury unfolded early in the first quarter when Murray drove to the basket and attempted to shoot. After missing the floater, he went to chase the rebound but fell to the ground, grabbing at his lower right leg. Murray quickly limped off the court, signaling trouble. Shortly afterward, the Pelicans announced he would not return to the game.
Head coach Willie Green expressed deep concern for Murray following the game. "Extremely difficult, when you see a guy who means so much to our team and puts the work in go down like this," Green said, reflecting the emotional atmosphere surrounding the team. There were no immediate updates on the specific diagnosis, but initial reports confirmed the Achilles tear.
Murray’s performance prior to the injury spoke volumes. He was averaging 17.9 points, 7.6 assists, and 6.5 rebounds per game after overcoming adversities earlier this season, including a broken hand. During his time with the Pelicans, Murray, acquired from the Atlanta Hawks, had lofty expectations following the team’s 49-win season last year. Unfortunately, it’s become glaringly apparent this season has not gone according to plan for the Pelicans.
This unfortunate setback adds to the myriad of challenges the Pelicans have faced this year. Subsequently, they entered the game against Boston with the third-worst record at 12-37, particularly exacerbated by numerous injuries. The team had already been without key players, including star players Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, who had missed significant time due to injuries. Green laid bare the challenges faced by the squad: "Those are the challenges we’ve been going through pretty much all season," he lamented.
Murray was already coming off a tough streak, missing 17 games earlier this season due to his hand injury. With this latest injury, there are serious concerns about his timeline for recovery, especially considering the typical rehabilitation period following an Achilles injury, which can take 6 months or longer. The Pelicans, still optimistic about Murray’s potential return, are left to figure out how to move forward without one of their key players.
Jose Alvarado, who stepped up considerably during Murray's absence, shared words of support for his injured teammate: "He’s one of the toughest soldiers I know. He held his head high after the injury and was waiting for us at halftime," Alvarado remarked. The camaraderie showcased within the team has become increasingly important as they navigate the ups and downs of this season.
Despite the perilous situation, Alvarado emphasized the positivity and resilience Murray brings to the group, stating how pivotal he remains. "I send my prayers up to you,” said Alvarado, encapsulating the collective sentiment of the team. Alongside Alvarado, other players like Trey Murphy III have also voiced their concerns, with Murphy offering, "It hurt a lot, I can’t lie to you. He’s been through so much already, and it doesn’t help. But sometimes God puts you through situations to give you bigger messages."
The Pelicans are now grappling with maintaining competitive momentum, especially as they seek to fill the void left by Murray. The situation poses additional challenges as the trade deadline approaches, with team management likely considering moves to adjust the roster, as reported by various sources. With their playoff hopes dwindling, it’s uncertain how they will proceed with future games as they aim to provide support not only for Murray but also to uplift the overall morale of the team.
With Murray officially sidelined for the remainder of the season, the Pelicans must rethink their strategy on the court and rally together to overcome this adversity. More than ever, they will need contributions from players across the roster as they move forward without their guard. Fans will surely be watching closely to see how the team adapts during this challenging time and what the future holds for Murray as he begins his recovery.