Denver Nuggets star point guard Jamal Murray missed his fifth straight game on Sunday due to a strained right hamstring, and his return before the playoffs remains uncertain. Coach Michael Malone emphasized that Murray’s absence isn’t precautionary, stating clearly, “Jamal’s hurt.” What began as a day-to-day issue has now evolved into a more serious concern, leaving the team uncertain about his availability for the postseason.
Malone Demands Urgency as Murray’s Injury History Fuels Playoff Performance Concerns
Despite Murray’s absence, Malone remains confident in his roster’s ability to adapt, urging players to rise to the occasion. He stressed the need for urgency and desperation as the playoffs approach, especially given the tight race in the Western Conference. The Nuggets, currently in fourth place, have now lost four straight games, including Sunday’s defeat to the Indiana Pacers, which further complicates their playoff seeding.
Jamal Murray (NBA)Murray’s current injury recalls last season’s late-year sprain, which hindered his performance in both the NBA playoffs and during international play with Team Canada. This pattern of late-season injuries raises concerns about his durability and ability to contribute when it matters most. His absence is even more impactful this year, given how competitive the Western Conference standings are.
Jokic’s Brilliance Shines as Nuggets Struggle and Malone Defends Westbrook’s Leadership Role
The Pacers played without Pascal Siakam, but still managed to beat Denver, a testament to the Nuggets’ current struggles. Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic continues a historic individual season, nearing a statistical milestone of being top-three in scoring, rebounding, and assists.
Indiana coach Rick Carlisle praised Jokic’s versatility, describing him as a player who effectively fills every position on the floor, making Denver’s playoff hopes still heavily reliant on his continued dominance.
Malone also took time to defend veteran guard Russell Westbrook, who faced backlash after two late-game mistakes in a double-overtime loss to Minnesota. Malone praised Westbrook’s leadership and contributions throughout the season, especially in Murray’s absence. He called out the team’s broader turnover issues and underscored the importance of Westbrook’s experience in guiding a young team through high-pressure situations.
