Denver Nuggets' Jamal Murray speaks out about his Game 6 availability
In a gritty demonstration of determination and resolve, Jamal Murray took center stage in Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals, overcoming illness to keep the Denver Nuggets' title hopes burning bright. The intense series once again heads to a winner-takes-all showdown in Game 7.
With an impressive 25-point performance, Murray steered the Denver ship to a 119-107 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night. Playing 39 minutes, he also chipped in with eight rebounds and seven assists, proving his iron will even when it seemed doubtful.
Asked about playing in this crucial game, an unwavering Murray replied, "Absolutely not." His competitive spirit was on full display.
The Nuggets seized control late in the second quarter by leveraging Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's foul trouble. With just 89 seconds left in the half, Gilgeous-Alexander picked up his fourth foul and was forced to the bench. Denver capitalized on this opportunity, forcing three consecutive empty possessions from the Thunder and igniting a pivotal 12-0 run that tied the game. Although Lu Dort hit a corner three at the buzzer to give Oklahoma City a 61-58 halftime lead, the momentum had already shifted in Denver's favor.
Despite the Nuggets' impressive play, the Thunder kept Ball Arena on edge late in the game by narrowing a 16-point lead to nine. Denver struggled to break Oklahoma City's full-court pressure, but it proved too late to impact the game's outcome.
The Nuggets and Murray force Game 7
Jamal Murray, known for raising his game in the playoffs, delivered another commanding performance, going toe-to-toe with MVP candidate Gilgeous-Alexander. However, the series isn't over yet - Murray and the Nuggets will aim to finish the job in Game 7 and secure a spot against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Nikola Jokic posted 29 points and 14 rebounds to contribute significantly to Denver's efforts, while Christian Braun added 23 points and 11 boards. Julian Strawther provided a spark off the bench, tallying a postseason career-high 15 points in the second half. Strawther, who had only mustered 17 points in the playoffs before Thursday, stepped up when Murray wasn't at full strength.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander paced the Thunder with 32 points, while Chet Holmgren contributed 19 points and 11 rebounds. Luguentz Dort, Alex Caruso, and Cason Wallace each added 10 points, and Jalen Williams dished out 10 assists to round out Oklahoma City's effort.
If the 2023 Western Conference semifinals data is what you're after, it appears that specific information was not available in the provided search results. The Nuggets did not face the Thunder in the 2023 Western Conference semifinals; they played the Phoenix Suns in that round.
The Nuggets, led by Jamal Murray's exceptional playoffs performance, have forced a decisive Game 7, seeking to secure a spot against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA playoffs. Striving to outshine MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Murray and the Nuggets will aim to close out the series and advance while Nikola Jokic, Christian Braun, and Julian Strawther also contribute significantly to their efforts.
