The revamped New Orleans Pelicans may have some weaknesses, especially with availability concerns, but they still managed to secure a 123-111 season-opening victory over the Chicago Bulls at home. However, just as excitement was building for Dejounte Murray’s debut, fans were hit with devastating news—Murray suffered a hand fracture. This unfortunate injury is a blow to a franchise that was finally gaining momentum, with Zion Williamson and Murray expected to lead the charge.
After the game, Pelicans star Brandon Ingram summed up the situation in five simple words during the postgame interview:
“Dejounte ran the game today.”
While Murray’s presence was felt, it was Ingram who shined statistically. The 27-year-old posted an impressive 33 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a block, including going 3-for-5 from three-point range. Murray, despite adjusting to the team’s system, contributed 14 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds, making the offense click, according to Ingram.
“Murray shared the basketball, and we got stops on defense,” Ingram noted. “We executed well, and we had a good read on Chicago’s pick-and-roll game. We knew their weaknesses and exploited them, attacking the rim, hitting threes, and getting to the free-throw line.”
Ingram praised Murray’s impact beyond the stat sheet, especially his defense and playmaking: “He’s always communicating, open to feedback. Even when his shot’s not falling, he’s doing so much for us on the court, particularly on defense. He had 10 assists tonight—he makes a huge difference out there.”
Unfortunately for head coach Willie Green, injuries continue to plague the team. Zion Williamson missed the opener due to illness but is expected to return. However, Trey Murphy III remains sidelined, and with Murray now set to miss over a month due to the hand injury, the Pelicans’ depth will be tested.
The road ahead won’t be easy for the Pelicans, who are heading west for two games against the Portland Trail Blazers before facing the Golden State Warriors. They’ll return home to face the Indiana Pacers with a short-handed lineup, which will pose further challenges.
Ingram, however, remains optimistic. He believes in the depth of the Pelicans roster, which, when used properly, could give other contending teams trouble.
“We’ve got a lot of versatile guys,” Ingram said confidently. “CJ McCollum stepped up big for us, hitting key threes and being efficient. And the big fella, Yves Missi, was great running the floor, blocking shots, and finishing at the rim. He’s going to be a big asset for us moving forward.”
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