Dejounte Murray Explains Late Return to Help Pelicans Chase Play-In

The interview highlights his grueling Achilles rehab, showing he intends to use the comeback to rebuild his standing.

Overview

Murray says the torn Achilles forced a longer, harder recovery than his 2018 ACL tear and left him early on unable to do calf raises or walk without support.
He chose to return for 14 late-season games because he believed the Pelicans still had a path to the play-in and wanted to help the team chase that spot.
In those 14 games after returning to the starting lineup he averaged 16.7 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.4 assists in about 28 minutes per game with solid shooting splits.
Murray emphasizes the mental side of recovery and credits intense preparation and hard work for getting him back on the court while also serving as a mentor to younger teammates.
Now healthy, he says he plans to use the coming season to prove himself right, rebuild his reputation as a top guard, and lift the Pelicans by example and leadership.