Dejounte Murray, the talented All-Star point guard acquired by the New Orleans Pelicans, has suffered a fractured left hand during the season opener, as confirmed by the team on Thursday.
Murray sustained the injury while bracing himself after a fall late in the fourth quarter of the Pelicans’ 123-111 victory over the Chicago Bulls. Although he continued to play and the injury seemed minor at first, medical imaging confirmed the fracture early Thursday morning. The team announced that he will be sidelined indefinitely.
The timing of this setback poses an early challenge for both Murray and the Pelicans, who are already dealing with other injury issues. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the extent of a hand fracture depends on which specific bones are affected, and healing typically requires one to two months. This might mean a return to basketball activity for Murray could occur around late December, which is roughly 28 games into the season.
This situation is particularly difficult for the Pelicans as Murray was brought in to enhance playmaking at point guard, relieving some scoring pressure from key players like Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson. The Western Conference is highly competitive, and the Pelicans finished last season ranked seventh, entering the play-in tournament before being swept in the playoffs.
While Murray is out, the Pelicans have a few options to fill the gap. CJ McCollum may take over the starting point guard role, although he was initially acquired to allow him to play shooting guard. During the previous game, McCollum contributed 23 points, five assists, and two rebounds. Additionally, Trey Murphy III, who is recovering from a hamstring injury, has begun rehabilitation and received clearance to start conditioning, but his absence complicates the team’s depth.
Another possibility is for Jose Alvarado, the backup point guard, to step in for Murray, allowing McCollum to remain at shooting guard. Alvarado had a limited contribution in their last outing but is recognized for his defensive skills.
Murray’s injury occurred late in the game when, with 2:21 remaining and the Pelicans ahead by 12 points, he was fouled while attempting a three-pointer. He fell awkwardly, using his left hand for support, immediately showing signs of distress. Despite this, he managed to finish the game with 14 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds. His head coach, Willie Green, praised Murray for his leadership amid personal challenges leading up to the game.