The New Orleans Pelicans may have to make do without Dejounte Murray for a multiple weeks, as the star point guard “is feared to have a fractured left hand,” per ESPN’s Shams Charania.
New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray is feared to have a fractured left hand, sources tell ESPN. Difficult opening night injury for Pelicans and Murray, who posted 14 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds in season-opening victory over Chicago. pic.twitter.com/JcDxdoSCKd
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 24, 2024
(Update: Testing has confirmed that Murray has fractured his left hand, per Charania. The eight-year NBA veteran has no immediate timeline to return.)
Pelicans’ Dejounte Murray Injury News Exposes Depth Concerns
Murray likely sustained the injury trying to brace himself while falling in the fourth quarter of their game against the Chicago Bulls. If so, with just over two minutes remaining and a 12-point lead, it was particularly untimely. That being said, the Pelicans’ thin point guard depth might get tested.
New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray is feared to have a fractured left hand, sources tell ESPN. Difficult opening night injury for Pelicans and Murray, who posted 14 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds in season-opening victory over Chicago. pic.twitter.com/JcDxdoSCKd
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 24, 2024
Jose Alvarado, who shut down rumors of being involved in a car accident on Wednesday, could start in Murray’s place. While playing in a high usage role during the Paris Olympics, he demonstrated his scoring potential. As he’s already known as an A-grade defender, there’s a lot to like about the move.
I’m all good. I was not involved in a car accident today. I was just making sure my friend that was involved was ok and everyone that was there ! Appreciate the concern❤️ https://t.co/Nx8NFzNJam
— Jose Alvarado (@AlvaradoJose15) October 23, 2024
Another possibility is letting CJ McCollum run the show while Murray rehabs. The 12-year veteran is more of an off-guard, but has enough experience and passing ability to hold down the fort. He even has an advantage over Alvarado in this area. However, McCollum’s defense is nothing to call home about, which puts pressure on his teammates to pick up the slack.
In either case, the Pelicans may need to sign a trade for another point guard. Being one injury away from calamity is an untenable situation. Though no player they acquire is likely to be on Murray’s level, it makes sense to further fortify the depth at a key position.
