What Dejounte Murray Returns Means For New Orleans Pelicans

What Dejounte Murray Returns Means For New Orleans Pelicans

The New Orleans Pelicans finally get a major boost.

After missing the entire 2026 season with an Achilles injury, Dejounte Murray is set to make his debut on February 24 against the Golden State Warriors — and it could reshape everything about this team’s identity.

Murray made it clear today:

“I’m not one of those guys that gets paid and wants a vacation.”

This isn’t just a comeback. It’s a statement.

How Murray Changes Borrego’s System

Interim head coach James Borrego has navigated a brutal 14–32 season filled with injuries. Murray simplifies the game immediately:

🧠 Legitimate Floor General

Rookie Jeremiah Fears (13.2 PPG, 3.1 APG) has battled, but Murray brings All-Star-level pick-and-roll command and late-game poise.

🔒 Defensive Reset

The Pelicans rank 27th in Defensive Rating (119.4).
Pairing Murray with Herbert Jones gives New Orleans a legitimate perimeter defensive backbone.

🧨 Freeing Zion

With Murray initiating offense, Zion Williamson can return to being a devastating finisher and secondary creator instead of playing “Point Zion” every possession.

The Bigger Picture: Summer Trade Implications?

At 14th in the West, this 24-game stretch also doubles as an audition:

If Murray looks explosive post-Achilles, he becomes a premium trade asset.

He’s on a team-friendly extension.

A healthy Murray could net multiple first-round picks in June.

Joe Dumars will be watching closely.

What to Expect Immediately

⚠️ Minutes restriction likely (20–24 MPG)
⚠️ Shooting rhythm and lateral quickness may take time

But even at 75%, expect:

Stronger defensive communication

Fewer easy blow-bys

A more organized half-court offense

Competitive edge and leadership

Current Pelicans Rotation

PG: Dejounte Murray / Jeremiah Fears / Jordan Poole
SG: Saddiq Bey / Bryce McGowens / Jordan Hawkins
SF: Herbert Jones / Trey Murphy III (Out) / Micah Peavy (Out)
PF: Zion Williamson / Karlo Matkovic
C: Derik Queen / DeAndre Jordan / Yves Missi (Out)

Injury Update

Trey Murphy III (Shoulder) – Out

Yves Missi (Calf) – Out

Micah Peavy (Toe) – Out

Stat to Watch

The Pelicans rank 26th in 3PT% (34.6%).
Murray’s penetration should create cleaner looks for Saddiq Bey and Jordan Poole.

Is this the beginning of a late-season push… or a trade showcase?

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I own none of the footage in the video, it is intended for the purposes of critique and education.