Inside The Celtics

Dejounte Murray Injury Status For Celtics vs Pelicans

Courtney Tate

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The Boston Celtics are gearing up for an important road game against the New Orleans Pelicans tonight, and while the Pelicans' 12-36 record may suggest an easy win, the Celtics cannot afford to take this matchup lightly.

Boston enters the game coming off a much-needed victory over the Chicago Bulls, but they remain just one game ahead of the New York Knicks for second place in the Eastern Conference. With the tight race at the top, every game counts, and slip-ups could be costly as they continue to chase the Milwaukee Bucks for the top spot.

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The Pelicans have been plagued by injuries this season, with key players like Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, and Dejounte Murray missing significant time. This has led to a disappointing start for New Orleans, leaving them second to last in the Western Conference.

However, Williamson has returned to action, and now all eyes are on Murray as he works his way back from a right elbow and right index finger injury. Murray was listed as probable for tonight's game, but has now been upgraded to available. which could be a big boost for the Pelicans

Having Murray on the floor is crucial for New Orleans. The 6'4" guard has been a dynamic force this season, averaging 17.9 points and 7.6 assists per game.

His ability to create plays and facilitate the offense is sorely missed when he’s not on the floor, especially with New Orleans' struggles in finding consistent scoring and ball movement. In their last game against the Dallas Mavericks, Murray showed just how impactful he can be when healthy, playing 33 minutes and contributing 27 points in a narrow one-point loss.

His performance demonstrated not only his scoring ability but also his leadership in clutch moments.

Murray's presence tonight could present challenges for the Celtics, especially on the road. His natural playmaking ability will give the Pelicans a much-needed boost in both the offensive and defensive ends.

The Celtics will have to contend with Murray's ability to break down defenses and create opportunities for others, particularly as he continues to build chemistry with Williamson. The Pelicans, despite their struggles, are dangerous when their core players are healthy, and with Murray back in the lineup, they are likely to make things more difficult for Boston, who will need to stay focused and execute their game plan if they hope to leave New Orleans with a victory.

For the Celtics, this road game is a crucial opportunity to secure a win, but it won't come without challenges, especially with the unpredictable nature of a team featuring Murray and Williamson.

With so much on the line, Boston will need to avoid complacency and bring their A-game

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Courtney Tate
COURTNEY TATE

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