Second-leading Denver Nuggets scorer Jamal Murray is the latest to go down with an illness. He’s been officially called questionable for Thursday’s Game 6. This development raises concerns for the team as they prepare to face their opponent in a crucial playoff match. Murray’s health status is particularly significant given his recent performance in Game 5, where he contributed 28 points despite a challenging shooting night.
In Tuesday’s Game 5, Murray had a difficult game shooting-wise, going 10-of-27 from the field. He exhibited a massive decline in play after halftime. This drastic drop-off was almost certainly a factor in the Nuggets’ defeat. That can be seen in his last ten attempts, of which he missed nine, a sign of the meltdown he was having on the court. As an offensive guard, he is indispensable to the team’s offensive game plan. If he’s not then that will severely damage their hopes of getting even past the first round of the playoffs.
Murray has been great all playoffs, averaging 22.3 points and 5.3 assists per game. His scoring has been his most important contribution to the Nuggets. So much so, that they’ve needed his playoff contributions to steamroll through the postseason. Should he not be able to suit up in Game 6, the Flyers’ scoring gets an enormous hit. It will change their entire offensive and defensive flow.
As the Nuggets organization continues to keep a watchful eye over Murray’s development, they’re looking ahead to this critical rematch. No pressure, right? A win is crucial for their playoff hopes, and they need to have all of their important players healthy if they’re going to make this long shot happen. Murray’s depth of experience and skills are assets that prove invaluable to us all. If that’s the case, the Seattle D may have to prepare for a different style game plan.
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