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New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray has sparked optimism among fans after sharing a video of himself walking without assistance, signaling progress in his recovery from a lingering Achilles injury. The update offers a glimmer of hope for a team that struggled through a season marred by health setbacks. Murray, acquired to bolster the Pelicans’ late-game execution, has been sidelined since January, compounding the challenges for a squad that faltered in clutch moments.
As the offseason unfolds, questions linger about his timeline to return to practice and readiness for the 2024-25 campaign.
Dejounte Murray’s progress and the Pelicans’ cautious optimism
Murray’s debut season in New Orleans was plagued by misfortune. After fracturing his hand in the opening game—an injury that cost him 17 contests—he returned only to suffer an Achilles strain in late January. The latter injury, notorious for its lengthy recovery, typically sidelines players for several months, with some cases requiring up to a year. While Murray’s recent video of walking unaided is encouraging, the New Orleans Pelicans have refrained from setting a concrete timeline for his return to practice or game action.
Impact on the Pelicans’ Season
Dejounte Murray was brought to New Orleans to address the team’s struggles in clutch situations, where they ranked among the league’s worst. His absence exacerbated these issues, leaving the Pelicans without a proven closer during critical stretches. Despite flashes of resilience, the team’s inability to secure tight games underscored how heavily they relied on Murray’s poise and playmaking.
Current recovery status
The 27-year-old guard’s latest update marks a milestone in his rehabilitation. Shedding the walking boot is a positive step, but Achilles injuries demand meticulous management to avoid setbacks. Medical experts emphasize that regaining full mobility is just the first phase; rebuilding strength, agility, and trust in the affected area follows. The New Orleans Pelicans’ medical staff will likely proceed cautiously, prioritizing long-term health over rushing his return.
Looking Ahead: Return to practice
While Dejounte Murray’s availability for the start of next season remains uncertain, his progress suggests he could rejoin practice by late summer or early fall. However, the organization is expected to adopt a conservative approach, gradually increasing his workload during training camp. Head coach Willie Green has stressed the importance of patience, stating, “We need Dejounte at 100%, not just physically but mentally confident in his body.”
Broader implications for New Orleans
Murray’s eventual return could reinvigorate a Pelicans roster eager to contend. His ability to create shots, defend multiple positions, and orchestrate late-game offense aligns with the team’s aspirations. Until then, New Orleans may explore backcourt depth in free agency or the draft to mitigate risk.
Dejounte Murray’s journey back to the court is a testament to resilience, but the New Orleans Pelicans’ cautious stance reflects the high stakes of his recovery. Fans and analysts alike will monitor his offseason progression, hoping his return catalyzes the team’s push for playoff relevance. For now, the focus remains on steady rehabilitation—one step at a time.
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