Pelicans' James Borrego credits Dejounte Murray's return as 'biggest factor' in NOLA turnaround

Borrego says the Pelicans' recent success is not just about getting healthy, but a collective mindset of playing for each other.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:26am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New Orleans Pelicans head coach James Borrego did not sugarcoat the impact that Dejounte Murray's return has had on the team's turnaround after the NBA All-Star break. Borrego acknowledged that getting Murray back has helped stabilize the Pelicans on both ends of the floor, but he was quick to push back on the idea that the team's recent form is solely tied to health. Borrego credited the Pelicans' mindset of playing for one another and a commitment to daily improvement as the biggest factors behind their surge.

Why it matters

The Pelicans' late-season surge has put them in contention for a potential play-in tournament spot, despite their struggles earlier in the year. Borrego's comments highlight the importance of team chemistry and collective buy-in, which could be a key factor in the team's head coaching decision this offseason.

The details

Over the past 15 games, the Pelicans have been one of the more efficient offensive teams in the league, leaning on Zion Williamson's interior scoring, Trey Murphy III's perimeter gravity, and Dejounte Murray's shot creation to generate consistent looks. Saddiq Bey's versatility and Herb Jones' defensive impact have also been crucial to the team's recent success.

  • The Pelicans have ranked among the top 10 in scoring, field goal percentage, turnovers, and free-throw attempts over the last 15 games.

The players

James Borrego

The head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans, who has overseen the team's turnaround after the All-Star break.

Zion Williamson

The star forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, who has been playing his best basketball of the season alongside Dejounte Murray.

Dejounte Murray

The All-Star point guard for the New Orleans Pelicans, whose return to the lineup has helped stabilize the team on both ends of the floor.

Herb Jones

The defensive-minded forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, who has been a key contributor to the team's recent success.

Trey Murphy III

The sharpshooting wing for the New Orleans Pelicans, whose perimeter gravity has helped create opportunities for his teammates.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Yeah, you know, that group has played well together. It settles us with Herb handling, you got Murf out there, Saddiq and Z have the two-man game going.”

— James Borrego, Head Coach

“Overall, it's been a mindset of care and playing for one another. I think we've had this going for some time now. It didn't just didn't happen overnight or in the last six to ten games.”

— James Borrego, Head Coach

What’s next

The Pelicans will continue to fight for a play-in tournament spot, with their final regular season games being crucial to their postseason hopes.

The takeaway

The Pelicans' turnaround has been fueled by more than just getting healthy, as Borrego emphasizes the team's collective mindset and commitment to playing for one another. This type of team-first approach could be a key factor in the Pelicans' head coaching decision this offseason.