Written by Jonathan Peter on October 10, 2022.
It finally happened! Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. returned to the Denver Nuggets’ starting lineup during preseason matchups against the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Chicago Bulls.
Although it is merely the preseason, there were still many encouraging moments from both players’ return which should excite Nuggets fans. Below, I’ve organized some clips from the Nuggets/Thunder contest which show off how drastically different this season’s team will be compared to last years.
The Jamal Murray post up is a beautiful thing to witness. He punishes smaller guards whenever he gets the opportunity and I expect this to be a big part of his game this upcoming season. Also, if a help side defender comes to provide support, Murray will be able to dump the ball off to Aaron Gordon or whoever is in the dunker spot for an easy two points. Simple and easy offense for the Nuggets.
This bailout three-ball from Murray is a great demonstration of what was missing from the Nuggets team last season. Last year’s team was so dependent on Nikola Jokic. If the ball was not in his hands with the shot clock winding down, it was assumed Denver would have an offensive possession resulting in zero points. But during this play, Murray takes the pressure off the team by knocking down a difficult side-step three pointer with ease. How relieving!
This clip might be my favorite of them all. The connection between Jokic/Murray/Porter is going to give opposing teams nightmares because of how difficult it will be to defend. Even on this play, Porter was not set to shoot after receiving the pass from Jokic. Imagine how crazy it will be when their chemistry is improved.
This outlet pass from Jokic to Porter should become a staple of the Nuggets offense. This kind of play compliments both player’s strengths. Plus, Denver got an easy and successful “2-for-1” because of they were able to generate two offensive possessions at the end of the second quarter. These types of plays were certainly a rarity on last season’s team.
Murray’s buzzer-beater to end the second quarter was another incredible reminder of what he brings to this Nuggets’ team: someone who is fearless and capable of taking tough shots. Last season, some opposing teams would defend the Nuggets at the end of games by denying the ball from Nikola Jokic and forcing someone else to make a play. Denver did not have anyone who was consistent enough of capitalizing in those one-on-one situations. This season that changes with Jamal Murray’s return.
Other Notes:
Both Murray (left hamstring tightness) and Jokic (right wrist sprain) are doubtful for Monday’s game against the Phoenix Suns. I think the Nuggets are being precautionary with these injuries and it’s smart to let both players rest and recover. I doubt that both will play again this preseason because of how careful the team is bound to act with their star players.
If you guys back and watch the Oklahoma City game, Jokic minimally uses his right hand, so it is obvious that was bothering him. This injury showed up last season and in the 2020 playoffs, which makes me slightly concerned. Coach Malone said an MRI on Jokic’s wrist “showed nothing sinister”, which is some good news.
Murray’s injury occurred during Friday night’s game against the Bulls. Murray stated that he is fine, but Denver is going to be very careful with him for the rest of his career. I think it is fair to expect some ups and downs with Jamal’s return after such a long absence from basketball.
The Nuggets wrap up their preseason this week with games against the Suns on Monday, the Clippers on Wednesday, and the Warriors on Friday.
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