The Denver Nuggets have finally put an end to their losing streak with a 134-121 victory over the Detroit Pistons. The team was in desperate need of a win after being defeated by the Cleveland Cavaliers in their previous game, which had significantly affected their morale. However, the good news is that the Nuggets no longer solely rely on Nikola Jokic, as Jamal Murray has shown signs of recovery. In today's game, Murray delivered an impressive performance with 34 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, and 3 blocks, achieving a +24 plus-minus rating and shooting at a high efficiency of 12 out of 21 from the field and 4 out of 7 from beyond the arc. We previously mentioned that Jokic is the foundation of the Nuggets, while Murray is the key to igniting the team's potential.
The reason behind the Nuggets' inconsistent form this season can be attributed to Murray's injuries and his lackluster performance following his max contract. However, since the start of the season, Murray's condition has gradually improved, especially in December. Over the course of 9 games, he has averaged 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.9 blocks, with a shooting accuracy of 49% and a three-point percentage of 43.4%. After the game, Nuggets head coach Michael Malone discussed Murray, stating that if he continues to play at this level, the Nuggets will be unbeatable.
Malone acknowledged that the outside world is harsh on Murray due to his max contract, which raises expectations for him. Murray's underperformance was a significant factor in the Nuggets' poor record. Jokic and Murray are the twin pillars of the Nuggets, and only when Murray performs at his best can the team reach a different level. This is why the Nuggets considered trading Michael Porter Jr. but not Murray, as he is indeed capable of making a significant impact when in top form.
Furthermore, the Nuggets have received better news as Russell Westbrook and Murray have proven to be compatible on the court. Murray is not particularly adept at organizing plays but excels as a scorer. Westbrook and Murray can complement each other's strengths, with Westbrook taking on a defensive role and occasionally scoring easy baskets when playing alongside Jokic, Murray, and others. When Jokic is off the court, Westbrook can facilitate plays involving Murray, Porter, and the rest of the team.
The Nuggets do not necessarily need Westbrook to score heavily; they benefit more from his ability to break through defenses, set up teammates, and contribute to rebounding and defense. In today's game, Westbrook started and played 30 minutes, scoring 8 points, grabbing 9 rebounds, dishing out 8 assists, and recording 2 steals, with a +13 plus-minus rating. Honestly, Malone should consider having Westbrook and Murray play together as starters long-term. Westbrook has been exceptional as a starter this season, with the Nuggets boasting a 7-2 record and a 77.77% win rate when he starts.
Westbrook's statistics as a starter are also outstanding, averaging 13.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, 8.2 assists, and 2.3 steals, with a shooting percentage of 51.1%. This is an All-Star level performance, showcasing his versatility on both offense and defense. After the game, Murray praised Westbrook, particularly for his passion. Murray believes that Westbrook's provocation and angering of opponents like Cunningham and Stewart were crucial to the Nuggets' victory. Ultimately, if Murray maintains his normal state, combined with Jokic's solid foundation and the addition of a powerhouse like Westbrook, which team could stop the Nuggets?
Murray said, "Russell Westbrook is extremely talkative; he has no ulterior motives; he just focuses all his energy on basketball. He tells you everything, and you can't stop talking. Look at his performance on the court; he's almost 40 years old [actually 36], yet he gives it his all in everything he does. I've never seen him lose his energy; he keeps our spirits high on the court. Today, he exchanged trash talk with Stewart, earning a technical foul for the opponent, and tangled with Cunningham, successfully igniting the enthusiasm of our home fans."