Another day, another Jamal Murray game-winner against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Murray hit a series-winning jumper to lift the Denver Nuggets past the Los Angeles Lakers, 108-106, in a thrilling Game 5 at the Ball Arena on Tuesday (PHL time).
Throughout the game, neither team managed to establish a double-digit lead, showcasing impressive shot making abilities, particularly in the fourth quarter.
However, it was Murray, who delivered the decisive blow for Denver with a game-winning jump shot in the closing moments.
With the game knotted up in the waning seconds, Murray, who was a game-time decision due to a left calf strain, expertly hit a jumper over Austin Reaves from just inside the free throw line to seal the 108-106 win over the Lakers.
Murray's shot found the bottom of the net with less than four seconds remaining, leaving the Lakers insufficient time for a final shot attempt.
JAMAL MURRAY CALLED GAME... AGAIN 🥶 pic.twitter.com/VM9Lzm8qz9
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) April 30, 2024
The 27-year-old guard from Kentucky finished with 32 points, while Nikola Jokic added with 25 points, 20 rebounds, and nine assists.
LeBron James, on the other hand, had 30 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds, including the two clutch free throws to tie the game at 106-106 with 27 seconds remaining before Murray saved the day again for Denver.
After the Lakers managed to hold a narrow lead at halftime, courtesy of a significant 12-0 run in the second quarter that helped them recover from an early deficit, their momentum was nearly derailed when Anthony Davis suffered a substantial blow to his left shoulder at the start of the second half.
Colliding with Michael Porter Jr. in the lane, Davis fell hard to the floor, remaining down for several minutes in evident discomfort before eventually making his way to the bench.
Anthony Davis injured his shoulder on this play pic.twitter.com/EcjlYw8IRo
— Lakers Daily (@LakersDailyCom) April 30, 2024
Despite the injury setback, the Lakers briefly extended their lead to nine points around the midway mark of the third quarter, thanks to a crucial 3-pointer from James.
However, Davis, clearly hampered by his shoulder ailment, struggled to make an impact on the court. Even when he secured his 10th rebound of the night, Davis immediately showed signs of discomfort, clutching his shoulder in pain.
The Lakers' nine-point lead proved to be short-lived as the Nuggets responded with a blistering 19-5 run, seizing control of the game within minutes.
Come clutch time, it was Murray who once again helped Denver escape the gritty battle, sinking the series-winning shot.
The defending champions will play the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference semifinals on Sunday, May 5 (PHL time).
