The New Orleans Pelicans opened the 2024-25 NBA season with a 123-111 victory over the Chicago Bulls, despite missing Zion Williamson due to illness. The team is facing multiple injuries, including a fractured left hand for Dejounte Murray, who will be sidelined indefinitely.

Despite these setbacks, the Pelicans have depth in their backcourt, with Jose Alvarado and CJ McCollum stepping up. Last season, they managed a strong record without Murray, and they can rely on their experienced core to navigate a challenging schedule through November.