The New Orleans Pelicans’ injury-plagued season has taken another devastating hit as Dejounte Murray has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2024-25 NBA season with a torn Achilles tendon. The injury, suffered during Friday night’s game against the Boston Celtics, is a crushing blow for a team already reeling from a string of setbacks.
Murray’s Injury: A Devastating Setback
Murray’s injury occurred in the first quarter of the Pelicans’ clash with the Boston Celtics. As he lunged for a loose ball, he suddenly fell to the court, clutching his right ankle in visible pain. He struggled to get back on his feet and limped off, clearly in distress.
Shortly after the game, Shams Charania of ESPN reported that Murray had torn his Achilles, an injury that not only ends his season but could also keep him out for a significant portion of the 2025-26 season.
This marks the second major injury of Murray’s career. He previously suffered a torn ACL in 2018, which sidelined him for the entire 2018-19 season when he was with the San Antonio Spurs.
Before the injury, Murray had logged four points in eight minutes, shooting 2-of-6 from the field. The Pelicans lost the game after a Jayson Tatum buzzer-beater, but the real loss came in the form of their star point guard’s injury.
Pelicans’ Season Ravaged by Injuries
The Pelicans entered the 2024-25 NBA season with optimism after acquiring Murray in a blockbuster trade from the Atlanta Hawks. The deal, which sent Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., and two first-round picks to Atlanta, was supposed to fortify New Orleans’ backcourt and provide much-needed support to Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.
Instead, injuries have completely derailed their season.
- Zion Williamson: Missed 27 games due to a hamstring injury.
- Brandon Ingram: Out since December 7 with a left ankle sprain.
- Dejounte Murray: Fractured his left hand in his Pelicans debut, missing 17 games, and now has suffered a season-ending Achilles tear.
- Herb Jones: Out indefinitely since January 8 with a torn labrum.
- C.J. McCollum: Missed 13 games due to a right adductor strain.
- Trey Murphy III & Jose Alvarado: Both have missed at least a dozen games.
At 12-36, the Pelicans have the worst injury luck in the NBA, struggling to field a consistent lineup. Only three players—Yves Missi (45 games), Javonte Green (43), and Brandon Boston Jr. (40)—have played in at least 40 of the team’s 48 games.
Murray’s First Season with the Pelicans: A Frustrating Journey
Murray was expected to be a cornerstone for the Pelicans after arriving in New Orleans via trade. His all-around ability—averaging 17.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, 7.6 assists, and 2.1 steals per game—made him a perfect fit for the Pelicans’ system.
However, he fractured his left hand in the season opener, forcing him to miss 17 games right at the start. Despite his strong performances since returning, his Achilles injury now ends his season prematurely, leaving New Orleans empty-handed after their massive trade investment.
What’s Next for the Pelicans?
With Murray out for the season and their playoff hopes all but gone, the Pelicans are expected to become sellers at the NBA trade deadline.
Potential Trade Candidates
- C.J. McCollum – The veteran shooting guard remains a valuable trade piece. Contenders in need of scoring and leadership could express interest.
- Brandon Ingram – The former All-Star forward has been linked to multiple teams in recent trade rumors. Given his contract situation, New Orleans may look to move him.
- Jonas Valančiūnas – The versatile center is on an expiring deal, making him an attractive trade asset for teams needing size and rebounding.
If New Orleans decides to reset their roster, they could shift toward a full rebuild—centered around Zion Williamson and their young talent.
Murray’s Long Road to Recovery
Achilles injuries are among the most difficult to recover from in professional sports. Players typically miss 9-12 months, meaning Murray could also miss part of the 2025-26 season.
His previous ACL injury in 2018 took a full year of recovery, but he managed to return at an All-Star level. However, the Achilles is a different type of challenge, and his explosiveness and defensive mobility may be impacted long-term.
How This Injury Affects the Pelicans’ Future
- Murray’s Trade Value Takes a Hit – The Pelicans gave up two first-round picks for Murray, expecting him to be a long-term piece. Now, his injury history and recovery timeline make him a risky asset.
- Pelicans’ Competitive Window Shrinks – With Zion’s health constantly in question and Ingram’s future uncertain, New Orleans may be forced into a major roster shakeup.
- Offseason Rebuilding Moves – If the Pelicans fail to recover next season, expect front-office changes, coaching decisions, and roster restructuring.
A Devastating Season for New Orleans
New Orleans entered the 2024-25 season with hope and excitement after acquiring Murray. But just four months later, the Pelicans are at the bottom of the standings, loaded with injuries, and facing an uncertain future.
With Murray out for the season, Zion and Ingram still sidelined, and trade deadline moves looming, the Pelicans’ season has gone from optimistic to disastrous in record time.
The question now is: What’s next for New Orleans? Will they blow up the roster and rebuild? Or will they try to salvage their core and hope for better health next season?One thing is certain—Dejounte Murray’s injury has changed everything for the Pelicans, and major decisions are coming soon.
