Jamal Murray showed signs of his former self in a crucial win against the Grizzlies, leading the Nuggets to a 122-110 victory without MVP Nikola Jokic. After two disappointing losses where Murray struggled significantly, his 27-point performance signaled a potential turning point for both him and the team. The Nuggets had appeared helpless in the absence of Jokic, with Murray's previous outings dating back to last season raising alarms about his effectiveness. However, the bounce-back display against the Grizzlies has reassured fans that Murray's talent and impact still matter.

By the Numbers
  • Murray scored 27 points, with 10/20 shooting and 5/10 from three.
  • In the prior two games without Jokic, Murray averaged 14.5 points on 12/31 shooting.
Yes, But

Despite the impressive performance, questions linger about Murray's consistency and whether he can maintain this level of play moving forward. His early-season struggles and disappointing playoff showing could still undermine confidence in his long-term contributions.

State of Play
  • Nuggets claim a vital win to halt a downward spiral without Jokic.
  • Murray’s previous two games highlighted his struggles, stirring doubts about his fitness and form.
What's Next

For Murray, the challenge lies in sustaining this momentum and delivering performances that match or surpass his recent showing. The Nuggets need him to stabilize the offense as they navigate a season that may demand more from him in Jokic's absence.

Bottom Line

Murray’s resurgence is a promising sign for the Nuggets, indicating that while he may have faced challenges, his potential remains intact. Consistency will be key for both Murray and the team as they aim for success without relying solely on Jokic.