The Pelicans are probably holding their breath despite winning the opening game.
Star Dejounte Murray is “feared” to have fractured his left hand in New Orleans' 123-111 win over the visiting Bulls on Wednesday night. ESPN's Shams Charania reports..
Murray played just under 30 minutes remaining and contributed to the win with a double-double of 14 points, 10 assists, and 8 rebounds.
It was not immediately clear when Murray was injured, but he appeared to grab his left hand after being fouled on a 3-point shot by the Bulls' Zach LaVine.
Murray stayed in the game and made 2 of 3 free throws, but was ultimately ejected with a minute left in the fourth quarter.
“I hope he's not out too long,” Pelicans guard CJ McCollum told reporters after the game. According to the Associated Press. “He looked at me and said his hand wasn't feeling good. He just kept playing. … He battled through and played well considering the circumstances.”
Murray was acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Hawks shortly after the 2024 NBA Draft to strengthen New Orleans' backcourt.
Last season, he averaged a career-high 22.5 points while with the Hawks.
