The first clash of the season between the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves lived up to expectations, showcasing an intense and physical battle between two of the top teams in the Western Conference at the Target Center on Friday night. Ultimately, the outcome mirrored that of the Western Conference semifinals from last May, with the Timberwolves pulling ahead in the final moments. This time, however, the Nuggets were missing their key playmaker.
Following the game, Nuggets head coach Michael Malone expressed his frustration over the officials overlooking a clear foul that led to Jamal Murray’s injury. He provided an update on Murray’s condition, stating, “I can’t believe they missed that. He was about to set a rip screen when his defender, not in a malicious way, but still pushed him,” according to Bennett Durando of the Denver Post. “It was definitely a significant impact, and we will always prioritize his health and safety. We want to ensure he’s in a good place. If he can’t play, we hope to have him back soon, but I don’t want to speculate since I don’t have more details.”
Malone also mentioned uncertainty regarding Murray’s availability for the Nuggets’ back-to-back game against the Utah Jazz on Saturday night. Given the serious nature of head injuries, it would be surprising if Murray suited up against the winless Jazz.
The Nuggets struggled without their ‘closer,’ Jamal Murray, who has had a challenging start to the 2024-25 season. Over the first five games, he has averaged only 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists, and his shooting percentage has plummeted from a career-high 48 percent last year to just 37 percent this season.
