Dejounte Murray has found a new lease in life after getting traded by the Atlanta Hawks to the New Orleans Pelicans. At least that’s what he believes in.
The one-time All-Star feels happy about joining the Pelicans after two relatively unsuccessful seasons in Atlanta. He joined the team in 2022 on the same year he made the All-Star Game as part of the San Antonio Spurs.
Problem though was that his game went down as part of the dynamic duo with Trae Young. Atlanta did not make the playoffs in any of those two seasons. Worse, they even had a losing record, a far cry from what many expected from their partnership.
He is starting over a new leaf and he has a belief that he will do better this time because he can become himself again. Murray suggested that part of his struggle with the Hawks was the part that he was not being used in his natural position.
“In Atlanta, I was in the corner and on the wings, and I made the best of it,” Murray told NOLA.com. “Here, they are allowing me to play my real position.”
He explained that he is at his best when he is in a position to make others better.
“Playing point guard. Keeping everything organized. And making dudes better. And doing what I do best.”
Dejounte Murray New Orleans Pelicans debut may be delayed
It is boosting to hear for fans that their players are happy with where they are and what they are doing. However, Pelicans might have to wait a little longer to see Murray in action. Murray might not be able to paly in their season opener against the Chicago Bulls.
The team announced that the 28-year-old guard is game-time decision as he still deals with personal problems.
“Murray has been away from the team for a few days while attending to a family emergency, but it sounds like he’s gearing up for game action. Murray’s conditioning levels following Tuesday’s workout will likely determine his availability for the regular-season opener,” CBS reported.
There is something to be excited about Murray at New Orleans. He grades his stint with Atlanta as average but he produced his best playing year last season when he averaged his career best 22.5 points per game. His assist, however, went down from 9.1 per game to 6.4.
He is expected to be the main point guard and focal point of the offense that already features Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson.
For the latest Basketball Content
Follow us @HardwoodHeroics for the latest and trending news about NBA, college basketball, and more. Stay updated by reading more of our NBA articles by clicking here and college basketball by clicking here!