Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray has been sidelined since January 31, 2025 after rupturing his right Achilles tendon, but he’s close to returning to action.
The one-time All-Star went through full practices on Wednesday and Thursday, writes Rod Walker of NOLA.com.
“He’s close,” interim head coach James Borrego said after Thursday’s practice. “I’d say in the next week, he’s back on the floor playing NBA games, which is amazing.”
Murray is nearing a return following an extended rehab process after the injury.
Acquired by New Orleans in a 2024 offseason trade with Atlanta, his first season with the Pelicans has been heavily interrupted by injuries.
He fractured his left hand in the 2024/25 season opener, missing 17 games, before later suffering the Achilles tear that ended his season.
The 29-year-old appeared in 31 games overall, averaging 17.5 points, 7.4 assists, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.0 steals in 32.6 minutes per game while posting a .393/.299/.823 shooting line.
Murray has already been ruled out for Friday’s game against Milwaukee, but Borrego remains optimistic about the impact the former All-Defensive guard will have once he returns.
“I’m expecting a lot from him,” Borrego said, per Walker. “He’s coming off a massive injury, but what I’ve seen has been encouraging. I look forward to watching him.”
Dejounte Murray Expected To Make Season Debut In February https://t.co/SPYVPV9IWe pic.twitter.com/JTV9Ts12MD
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 21, 2026
