It was a triumphant return for Jamal Murray and the Denver Nuggets Wednesday night. He was instrumental in guiding the team to a 117-109 win against the Memphis Grizzlies, helping set the tone early. The point guard, who had been sidelined since March 26 due to injury, showcased his skills with a timely performance, scoring 15 points and contributing significantly in clutch moments.
Murray played 32 minutes, shooting 5-of-12 from the field in all. His impact was at its highest in the fourth quarter. The South Carolina native burrowed in defensively and scored a few key makes that carried the Nuggets into the next round. In addition to his scoring, Murray recorded seven assists and five defensive rebounds, demonstrating his all-around contributions to the team’s effort.
Murray’s return couldn’t have come at a better time for Denver, as they get ready to head back into this year’s playoffs. For the last several seasons, his partnership with two-time MVP Nikola Jokic has been crucial to the Nuggets’ success. It was his stellar performance against the Grizzlies that brought that deadly combination back to life.
“I was trying to shoot myself into rhythm,” Murray said after the game, reflecting on his return to play. He admitted that missing six games could be a flow-breaker, but he was happy with how the team performed as a whole.
“It’s been six games. That’s enough to take you out of your rhythm a little bit. It was good to see the ball go in, but I’m just happy for everybody that got in the game. Everybody played well, we played with energy and urgency like there was something on the line because there was,” he added.
Head coach Michael Malone has been Murray’s biggest champion since he came into the league. No matter how the season unfolds, their energy and bond is contagious, and Murray has reaped benefits from Malone’s omnipresent encouragement.
“Coach always had my back from a young kid coming into this league up until now,” Murray noted. “He’s always rooted for me. Though he found my research distracting, he always encouraged me and made me feel better. I hope to pay that energy back and give him the same kind of respect. We don’t get here without him.”
Murray’s high-level performance backstopped the entire Nuggets’ run, but his journey to that stage was fueled by a maverick spirit and desire to be great. His mere presence on the court had the ability to create an electric energy among players and fans as well.
If that doesn’t get you fired up then you’re broken, dude, Murray added, noting that their strong team chemistry will be critical as they move into the playoff season.
With the NBA playoffs rapidly approaching, Murray’s return could not have come at a better time for Denver. The Nuggets are hungry to keep the good vibes rolling. With Murray healthy again, they certainly look poised for a deep postseason run.
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