Dejounte Murray Flourishes in 'Real Position' with New Orleans Pelicans

A Fresh Start, A New Role

After years of being miscast as a point guard in San Antonio, Dejounte Murray has finally found his true calling as a shooting guard with the New Orleans Pelicans. The move has unlocked Murray's full potential, allowing him to showcase his exceptional ball-handling, playmaking, and defensive prowess.

Returning to His Roots

Murray's natural position is shooting guard, where he excels in creating his own shot and setting up teammates. In San Antonio, he was forced into the point guard role out of necessity, but it limited his effectiveness. Now, with the Pelicans, he can focus on his strengths and play off the ball, which has resulted in a significant boost to his production.

Stats Don't Lie

The numbers speak for themselves: in his first season with New Orleans, Murray averaged 21.1 points, 6.9 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. His shooting efficiency also improved, as he shot 46.2% from the field and 36.9% from three-point range. These numbers are a testament to Murray's comfort and effectiveness in his new role.

Defensive Dominance

Murray's impact extends beyond the offensive end. He is a tenacious defender who can guard multiple positions effectively. His length, athleticism, and quick hands make him a formidable presence on the defensive side of the ball. In New Orleans, he has formed a formidable defensive duo with Brandon Ingram, helping the team to rank among the top defenses in the league.

Leadership and Mentorship

Beyond his on-court contributions, Murray has also emerged as a leader in the Pelicans' locker room. His experience and work ethic have earned him the respect of his teammates, and he has taken on a mentorship role for younger players like Zion Williamson. Murray's positive attitude and professionalism have helped create a winning culture in New Orleans.

Conclusion

Dejounte Murray's move to the New Orleans Pelicans has been a resounding success. By playing his "real position" at shooting guard, he has unlocked his full potential and become one of the most well-rounded players in the NBA. His impact on both ends of the court has been transformative, helping the Pelicans establish themselves as a legitimate contender in the Western Conference.