Denver, CO—Jamal Murray’s game-winning shot against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 2 of the Western Conference first-round series was a moment of pure magic. However, Murray himself didn’t witness the basket live.
As the clock wound down, Murray executed a flawless step-back 15-footer over Anthony Davis, sealing a breathtaking 101-99 victory for the Denver Nuggets. The shot came at the buzzer, sending the crowd at Ball Arena into a frenzy and propelling the Nuggets to a 2-0 series lead as the action shifts to Los Angeles for Game 3.
Reflecting on the climactic moment, Murray recalled, “I just lost my balance and fell. I think A.D. was in my way or somebody was in my way and I just heard everybody scream and that’s how I knew it went in.”
Despite a shaky start, Murray’s resilience shone through, as he rallied from a difficult shooting night to deliver when it mattered most, tallying 20 points with a stellar fourth-quarter performance.
Throughout his struggles, Murray remained steadfast, buoyed by the support of his teammates. “I told my teammates when I was struggling, ‘I’m gonna look for y’all,’ and every single one of them told me to keep shooting,” Murray recounted. His determination paid off as he found his rhythm late in the game, ultimately hitting the game-winner.
Nuggets coach Michael Malone’s decision not to call a timeout proved crucial, allowing Murray the freedom to make a decisive play in the game’s final seconds. Murray’s fake-out maneuver against Davis and subsequent basket exemplified his composure under pressure.
“That’s Jamal Murray right there,” Malone praised. “He can struggle, he can struggle, he can struggle. He sees one go in and he’s never shying away from the moment, the spotlight. And that was just an incredible play.”
While Murray’s heroics stole the spotlight, Nikola Jokic’s triple-double performance (27 points, 20 rebounds, 10 assists) and contributions from Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon were equally vital in securing the win for Denver.
On the Lakers’ side, Anthony Davis led the charge with 32 points, supported by LeBron James and D’Angelo Russell. Despite their efforts, the Lakers couldn’t maintain their early lead, succumbing to Denver’s relentless comeback.
Reflecting on the game, James acknowledged the missed opportunities, stating, “A 20-point lead in this league, it’s not safe, especially against the defending champion.”
As the series heads to Los Angeles, the Nuggets carry momentum and confidence, while the Lakers seek redemption in front of their home crowd. With tensions high and stakes even higher, both teams brace for a fiercely contested battle in Game 3.
