Nikola Jokic may be the NBA’ two-time MVP but it is Jamal Murray that has been stealing the headlines in recent weeks for the Denver Nuggets. The guard has been on a remarkable run during the early stages of the playoffs and once again played the role of hero in a hard-fought Game 5 matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Murray led all scorers on Monday night with 32 points to lead the Nuggets to the 108-106 victory and secure a 4-1 series win to progress to the next round.
LeBron James and Lakers battled to tie the game at 106-106 with the fourth quarter winding down. The Nuggets were at risk of dropping a second consecutive game to the Lakers and would have had to travel back to Los Angeles for Game 6. Murray dribbled down to the elbow and was able to make a vital basket with seconds remaining on the clock for a crucial win.
During the postgame interview, head coach Micheal Malone lauded Murray for his toughness and ability to come through in difficult situations.
“The kid is a warrior,” said Malone. “I can’t say enough good things about Jamal Murray. The bigger the moment, the kid just continues to shine.”
"He's a warrior, I can't say enough good things about Jamal Murray… the bigger the moment, the kid just continues to shine."
Coach Malone has high praise for his star guard 🙌 pic.twitter.com/wrEvGW1cz5
— NBA (@NBA) April 30, 2024
This was not the first time Murray broke Laker fans hearts in this series. The 6-4 point guard pulled off a miraculous fade away buzzer beater in Game 2 to ensure a slender 101-99 win.
Over five playoff games, Murray is averaging 23.6 points, 7.2 assists and 4.2 rebounds and a block.
The Nuggets will move on to the next round and are set to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in what will be a mouthwatering encounter.
