The New Orleans Pelicans edged out the Golden State Warriors with a 113-109 victory, marking their 17th win of the season. But the real headline? The triumphant return of All-Star guard Dejounte Murray, who took the court for the first time since tearing his right Achilles on January 31 of last year.
Murray's comeback was nothing short of impressive, earning him a solid B grade for his performance. Let's dive into the details of his return.
Murray's Stats and Impact
Murray posted 13 points, two rebounds, three assists, and one steal, shooting 5-for-11 from the field and 1-for-4 from beyond the arc. Offensively, he seemed as sharp as ever.
Right from the tip-off, he scored with an in-and-out backdoor cut, and his mid-range jumper was on point, nailing a pull-up in the first quarter. His fearless drives to the basket, including a charge call on what could've been an and-one against Brandin Podziemski, showed he wasn't shying away from contact.
In the third quarter, when the Warriors' zone defense had the Pelicans scrambling, Murray took charge. He orchestrated the offense, first by hitting DeAndre Jordan on the short roll, then creating his own shot with a turnaround fadeaway, and finally sinking a three off a screen. This level of assertiveness was precisely what the Pelicans needed, especially in moments when they've struggled this season.
As the game tightened in the fourth quarter, Murray delivered crucial assists-a corner kick to Saddiq Bey for a three-pointer and a short roll pass to Zion Williamson. He re-entered the game with two minutes left, providing a calming presence. His clutch drive and high-glass layup sealed the win for New Orleans.
Defensive Prowess
Defensively, Murray exceeded expectations, especially considering his recovery from a major leg injury. His footwork was sharp, maintaining strong defensive positioning and displaying active hands reminiscent of his days with the Spurs.
Unseen Hustle
Beyond the stat sheet, Murray's fearless energy was evident. Twice, he dove for loose balls, showcasing the kind of hustle that ignites both the crowd and his teammates. These high-energy plays, though not reflected in the box score, are invaluable for team morale.
Room for Improvement
While Murray did commit five turnovers, it's understandable given his long layoff. Shaking off the rust is part of the process, and considering the circumstances, his performance was a strong debut.
In summary, Dejounte Murray's return is a promising sign for the Pelicans. His blend of offensive skill, defensive tenacity, and unyielding hustle makes him a key piece for New Orleans moving forward. Fans should be excited about what's to come as he continues to find his rhythm.