Murray Powers Through Illness as Nuggets Force Game 7 Behind Veteran Grit and Jokic’s Dominance

Denver Nuggets star Jamal Murray was officially listed as “questionable” due to an illness ahead of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals. Despite waking up feeling under the weather, Murray never doubted his participation in the game, especially with the Nuggets facing elimination against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.

As expected, he started the game and played a pivotal role, continuing his trend of excelling under pressure. Murray finished with 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists, once again proving his ability to deliver in high-stakes moments.

Jokic, Strawther Shine as Nuggets Lean on Experience Ahead of Crucial Game 7

Murray wasn’t the only standout performer in Denver’s 119-107 win at Ball Arena. Nikola Jokic added a dominant performance of 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 assists. Nuggets reserve Julian Strawther also stepped up, scoring all 15 of his points in the second half, including eight during a decisive 10-0 run in the third quarter. Denver’s all-around urgency and execution allowed them to stay alive in the series and force a Game 7, showing their resilience in elimination games.

With Murray in the lineup, the Nuggets have an impressive 9-3 record in elimination games. He has averaged 27.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in those contests, illustrating his ability to elevate his play when the stakes are highest. Sunday’s Game 7 in Oklahoma City will be Denver’s seventh Game 7 since 2019, the most in the NBA during that period.

Their battle-tested experience in such scenarios could prove pivotal against a Thunder team led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 32 points in Game 6 but acknowledged their slow start was costly.

Gordon’s Hamstring Woes and Murray’s Grit Define Nuggets’ Game 7 Readiness

Denver’s Game 7 lineup may face a challenge, as power forward Aaron Gordon experienced tightness in his left hamstring late in Game 6 and was removed for precautionary reasons. His availability remains uncertain, pending evaluation. Gordon, a crucial part of Denver’s championship team two years ago, expressed cautious optimism, stating he’d begin recovery immediately. His presence in the lineup could be a significant factor in the team’s ability to withstand Oklahoma City’s offensive pressure.

Despite undergoing treatments all day—including IV fluids—Murray was only cleared to play 45 minutes before tipoff. Yet, he immediately set the tone with an and-1 three-pointer and 11 first-quarter points. Playing a game-high 42 minutes, he pushed through breathing difficulties and overall fatigue, demonstrating trademark toughness.

Nuggets interim coach David Adelman praised Murray’s determination, calling him “tough-minded” and noting how the adversity seemed to bring out the best in him. His resilience not only inspired teammates but was instrumental in keeping the team’s title hopes alive.