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New Orleans Pelicans head coach Willie Green referred to having a point guard as a “luxury” and emphasized that it was a key focus for the front office during the offseason. Their acquisition of All-Star point guard Dejounte Murray from the Hawks was seen as a pivotal move to reshape their playing style with an experienced floor general at the helm.

However, their excitement was short-lived when Murray fractured his left hand in the very first game of the season against the Bulls. This injury left the Pelicans back at square one, though they might have managed if Murray was the only one sidelined. Unfortunately, the injury bug struck again, affecting a significant portion of the team.

 

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After a rough stretch of just one win in their last twelve games, the New Orleans Pelicans are given a glimmer of hope as they prepare to face the Toronto Raptors. Dejounte Murray is set to make his return to the court for the first time since his injury, with reports confirming, “Dejounte Murray (hand) available to play Wednesday.” All eyes will be on Murray as he looks to make an immediate impact on the team.

Before the season started, Murray had left the squad during preseason due to personal reasons, which he later revealed was because his mother had suffered a stroke. He shared how challenging that time was and how his hand injury felt like a sign from above, telling him, “Nah, you need to stay with your mom.” As he makes his return, it will be for his mother, who is now recovering well. Murray expressed, “I’m ready to hoop. Play for my mother — she’s going to be watching,” dedicating his comeback to her.

New Orleans Pelicans Injury Report

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Can Dejounte Murray's return ignite a Pelicans comeback, or are injuries too big a hurdle?

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While Dejounte Murray’s return offers a sense of relief for the Pelicans faithful, the situation remains far from ideal for New Orleans. Several key players are still sidelined, including Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, and Jose Alvarado. Ingram, for instance, is dealing with a calf issue and remains day-to-day ahead of Wednesday’s game.

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In addition to Murray’s return, the Pelicans’ injury list continues to grow. Zion Williamson is out indefinitely with a hamstring injury, while Jose Alvarado is recovering from a left hamstring strain and will be re-evaluated in three weeks. The list also includes guard Jordan Hawkins, who is questionable due to back spasms. Herbert Jones is sidelined with a shoulder injury, and Trey Murphy III is probable for Wednesday’s game due to a left knee contusion.

New Orleans Pelicans predicted lineup for Raptors matchup

With Dejounte Murray’s return, Elfrid Payton, who has stepped up in the wake of the Pelicans’ injury issues, will move to the backup role. Alongside Murray, CJ McCollum will join forces in the backcourt, providing the team with a much-needed boost.

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Projected starting lineup:
PG: Dejounte Murray, SG: CJ McCollum, SF: Brandon Boston Jr., PF: Javonte Green, C: Yves Missi

The refreshed Pelicans will look to end their five-game losing streak as McCollum and Murray take the lead in the backcourt against the Raptors.

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Can Dejounte Murray's return ignite a Pelicans comeback, or are injuries too big a hurdle?