Denver, CO — Despite battling a strained left calf and management’s advice to sit out, Jamal Murray led the charge against the Los Angeles Lakers, scoring 32 points and clinching the game-winner with 3.6 seconds remaining on Monday night.
His heroics marked LeBron James’ earliest playoff exit ever as the Denver Nuggets clinched a 108-106 victory in Game 5, characterized by 16 lead changes and 10 ties. The win was secured when Taurean Prince’s halfcourt attempt fell short as time expired.
Murray, who also nailed the franchise’s first playoff buzzer-beater in Game 2, described the winning shot as a childhood dream come true, labeling it “a little better” than the previous one.
His determination and defiance were pivotal in sealing the series. Despite initial reluctance from management due to his injury, Murray insisted on playing, fearing leaving his teammates to battle alone. His perseverance paid off as he delivered when it mattered most.
Coach Michael Malone hailed Murray as a warrior, emphasizing his ability to shine in critical moments. Nikola Jokic’s stellar performance, narrowly missing a playoff triple-double, and Michael Porter Jr.’s contributions added to the Nuggets’ triumph.
Though James and Anthony Davis put up a fight for the Lakers, with Davis matching Murray’s first-half points, it wasn’t enough to stave off elimination. The Nuggets’ resilience throughout the series, despite trailing for much of it, earned them the well-deserved victory.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets will face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round, commencing next weekend. Despite the challenges faced, including injuries and shooting slumps, Denver remains confident, especially with their formidable home record.
Despite the disappointment for the Lakers, Coach Darvin Ham praised his team’s resilience, acknowledging their determination and character displayed throughout the series.
“I couldn’t be more proud of our crew despite everything that happened,” said coach Ham, who’s sure to be on the hot seat. “Obviously, the series didn’t go in our favor, didn’t start the way we wanted it to, but to win that one at home, fight tooth and nail today to get this one, our guys showed a lot of guts and a lot of character.”
