The New Orleans Pelicans will have to be without their new guard Dejounte Murray for a long time. According to information from ESPN-Insider Shams Charania, Murray broke his left hand in Wednesday night’s season opener against the Chicago Bulls. Despite the 123:111 victory, this news clouds the joy of the successful start.
Strong debut for Murray
Murray had an impressive performance in his debut for the Pelicans. The newcomer, who moved to New Orleans from the Atlanta Hawks in the offseason, scored 14 points, handed out 10 assists and grabbed eight rebounds. He joins the ranks of Pelicans players who recorded at least 10 assists in their debut – a feat that only Elfrid Payton (2018) and Baron Davis (2002) had previously achieved.
The injury occurred shortly before the end of the game. With just over two minutes left on the clock and New Orleans leading by 12 points, Murray attempted a three-pointer from the top of the key. While landing, he was fouled by Zach LaVine and had an unfortunate fall. Murray immediately grabbed his left hand and refused help from a teammate when he tried to help him up.
Despite the obvious pain, Murray still stepped to the free throw line and converted two of three shots. Shortly afterwards, however, he was substituted and did not return to the field. Remarkably, he finished the game with just one turnover – a feat he achieved only twice last season with the Hawks, when he had 10 assists and a maximum of one turnover in a game.
More worries for the Pelicans
The Pelicans were already without their star forward Zion Williamson, who was out for a short time due to an illness. The possible injury to Murray could now further disrupt coach Willie Green’s plans.
After initially only suspecting a broken hand, Charania confirmed the bitter diagnosis.
