In the wake of the Nuggets’ two-game losing streak without Nikola Jokic in which Jamal Murray averaged fewer than 15 points per game, shot worse than 40% from the field and 30% from 3, it’s time to talk about Murray. Here are five quick thoughts on what’s going on with Denver.
We broke down the two disaster games and where the fanbase is at on our latest episode.
1. The Good Doesn’t Erase The Bad: I think it’s important to start by remembering that Murray is more than his last two games, his start to this season, or the last six months which were so disappointing. Murray is still the player who dropped multiple 50-point performances in the Bubble, who averaged 30 on 50-40-90 vs. the Lakers in the WCF and dropped a 30-point triple-double alongside Jokic. He may not be able to play like that player anymore— that’s a separate question — but do not throw out what he’s meant to the franchise... or Jokic.
2. Goodwill Only Extends So Far: The Nuggets didn’t sign Murray to a long-term max extension based on what happened in 2023. It came with the idea that he could be a franchise point guard in the regular season and a playoff killer.
3. Murray’s Doing Good Things, Just Not The Right Ones: Murray’s defense this season? Actually pretty good! Not hugely impactful but a net positive. He’s been a good playmaker, and continues to look like his long-term upside rests as a playmaker and floor general. He’s deferred and looked for Michael Porter Jr. Except, that’s not why the Nuggets paid him. They paid him to score at a high level, and that’s what Denver needs right now, an explosive scorer next to Jokic or to fill the gap without him.
4. He’s Clearly Not Right: Murray’s obviously not 100%. Maybe something happened and he can never get back to 2021 or 2023 levels of explosiveness. And that creates short and long-term complications. But it also puts Murray in a trap. If he doesn’t play, he’s letting the team down by not being available while Jokic plays through everything. If he does play, he doesn’t play well and lets down Jokic. It’s a no-win for him, but one that should be dealt with rationally by resting him.
5. Never Expect: Murray is an absolute master of subverting expectations When you think he’s cooked, he delivers. When you think he’s primed for a huge season or performance, he drifts. He’s not a player you can really predict, and I won’t be surprised if has better games ahead.
