Nuggets Take Series Lead Over Clippers Murray Scores 43
Nuggets Take Series Lead: Murray's 43 points & Westbrook's spark propel Denver to a 3-2 lead over Clippers, despite Harden's struggles; Denver aims to close out series.
NBA Playoffs: Nuggets Take 3-2 Lead Over Clippers
Key Highlights:
- Jamal Murray's Explosive Performance: Murray scores 43 points, including eight 3-pointers, marking a return to his 2023 championship form.
- Russell Westbrook's Impactful Bench Play: Westbrook provides a crucial spark off the bench, contributing 21 points.
- Nuggets' Game 5 Victory: Denver defeats the Los Angeles Clippers 131-115 to secure a 3-2 series lead.
- Harden's Struggles: James Harden has a difficult night, scoring only 11 points for the Clippers.
Murray's Resurgence:
- Playoff Form: Murray's performance resembles his instrumental role in Denver's 2023 NBA championship run.
- Injury Recovery: After struggling with injuries, Murray showcases his scoring ability.
- Coach Adelman's Praise: Adelman recognizes Murray's ability to perform in big moments.
Westbrook's Energy:
- Impact from the Bench: Westbrook scores 16 points in a 13-minute stint.
- Energy and Interaction: Westbrook's energy is contagious, as he engages with players and fans.
Key Stats:
- Jamal Murray: 43 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds, 17-of-26 from the field, 8-of-14 from 3-point range.
- Russell Westbrook: 21 points, 8-of-15 from the field, 3-of-6 from 3-point range.
- Ivaca Zubac (Clippers): 27 points
- Kawhi Leonard (Clippers): 20 points, 11 assists
- Nikola Jokić: 13 points (4-of-13 shooting)
Series Context:
- Nuggets' Lead: The Nuggets hold a 3-2 lead and have the opportunity to close out the series in Game 6 on the road.
- Last Season's Loss: Coach Adelman emphasizes the importance of not getting ahead of themselves.
Coach's quotes:
- David Adelman (Nuggets coach) on Murray: "Some of the shots he made were just absolutely ridiculous...He was born for this. Special night for Jamal.”
- David Adelman on Christian Braun guarding Harden: "CB’s never scared of the moment. He may play great. He may play OK. But there is nothing about that guy that’s scared of this moment."
- Russell Westbrook: "It's important, man... That's a huge part of the game that the average eye may not see or the box score may not show.