Sources: Pelicans fear Dejounte Murray broke hand in opener

The New Orleans Pelicans fear guard Dejounte Murray suffered a fractured left hand in Wednesday night’s season-opening  123-111 victory over the Chicago Bulls, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania. 

Murray put up 14 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds in his debut for New Orleans, which acquired him in an offseason trade with the Atlanta Hawks. 

He appeared to suffer the injury with just over two minutes left in the fourth quarter. With New Orleans up 12, Murray attempted a 3-pointer from the top of the key and was fouled by Zach LaVine on his way down. Murray tumbled over and came up holding his left hand then refused assistance when a teammate tried to lift him back up with that hand.

Murray was still able to go the free throw line, making 2-of-3, but was subbed out for good with a minute to play.

Murray had been questionable to face the Bulls after missing practice Tuesday because of personal reasons but was deemed available shortly before tipoff.

He became the third player in Pelicans history with 10 assists in his team debut, joining Elfrid Payton (2018) and Baron Davis (2002). Murray had just one turnover on the night. Last season with the Hawks, he had just two games total with 10 assists and one or fewer turnovers.

New Orleans already was missing star forward Zion Williamson, who was scratched from Wednesday’s lineup due to an illness.