LeBron James offers heartfelt support to Dejounte Murray after Achilles injury

Dejounte Murray, guard for the New Orleans Pelicans, has torn his right Achilles tendon, effectively ending his 2024-25 season, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes. During Friday’s game against the Boston Celtics, Murray collapsed following a severe non-contact injury to his right leg. He was helped off the court, and fears were confirmed when the injury was assessed.

LeBron James took to X to express his support, writing, “Speedy and healthy recovery to my lil bro!! Love man!” followed by several praying emojis. James and Murray have developed a close relationship over the years, starting when the superstar invited the guard to his camp. As Murray has shared in the past, they are “tight,” and watching a friend endure such a tough injury is difficult.

The Pelicans have not officially commented on Murray’s injury yet. Head coach Willie Green told reporters postgame that the guard would undergo imaging, with the team expected to provide an update once the results are available, as reported by Marc J. Spears of Andscape.

Dejounte Murray’s tough season with the Pelicans

In his first season with the Pelicans, Murray has faced multiple challenges. Acquired in a trade from Atlanta during the offseason, the 28-year-old experienced adversity even before the season started, as he had to leave the team to care for his mother, who suffered a stroke. Then, in the very first game of the regular season, Murray fractured his left hand.

After missing 18 games due to the hand injury, Murray returned to the lineup, but his shooting struggles continued, as he shot just 39.3% from the field over 30 games before Friday—his lowest career percentage. The Pelicans, also battling injuries to other key players, have posted a 12-37 record.

With the Pelicans already out of playoff contention this season, Murray’s availability for the start of the 2025-26 season is uncertain due to the extensive recovery time required for an Achilles tear. His contract includes two more guaranteed seasons after this one, as well as a player option for 2027-28.

Pelicans’ roster adjustments in Murray’s absence

With Murray out for the rest of the season, the Pelicans are expected to lean more on CJ McCollum to take on playmaking duties, while backup guard Jose Alvarado will see a larger role. Alvarado stepped in for Murray at the start of the second half on Friday.

Injuries have plagued the Pelicans this season, with forward Brandon Ingram missing 21 games and counting due to a sprained ankle, and Zion Williamson sidelined for nearly two months with a hamstring injury. Ingram and Williamson are the team’s leading scorers, and Murray, a former All-Star, was an important part of the rotation.

The Pelicans made a significant investment to acquire Murray from the Atlanta Hawks, trading away Dyson Daniels, E.J. Liddell, Larry Nance Jr., Cody Zeller, and two first-round picks for the 28-year-old guard.

This season, Murray has been averaging 17.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, 7.6 assists, and a career-high 2.1 steals in 33.5 minutes per game.

Unfortunately for New Orleans, they won’t be able to apply for a disabled player exception (DPE) to replace Murray, as the deadline for DPE applications passed on January 15.