Jamal Murray silences critics with 45 points as Michael Malone praises his vital role in Denver’s championship success and future.
Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone passionately defended Jamal Murray following the star guard’s electrifying 45-point performance in a 118-99 victory over the Dallas Mavericks.
“I think the microscope on Jamal is a little intense. Everybody’s just got to kind let the kid breathe a little bit. He’s not perfect. And if you look, I think his overall stats as of recently, he’s been very good for us.”
“I think Jamal has been catching a lot of heat this year. Jamal Murray didn’t pay himself $52 million. We did that as an organization, because we believe in him. We don’t win our first franchise championship without Jamal Murray averaging 21, 10 and 6. You know what I mean?”
“So I understand that everybody wants our guys to play perfect. Everybody wants us to be undefeated. Doesn’t happen like that. Every player goes through ups and downs. The most important thing for Jamal is to know that everybody in that locker room – coaches, players, has his back and we’re going to ride with him.”
The performance, a season-high for Murray, came amid criticism of his play following the signing of a four-year, $209 million maximum contract extension during the offseason. Malone emphasized the team’s unwavering belief in Murray, highlighting his crucial role in the Nuggets’ success, particularly during their 2023 championship run.
Murray’s first-half explosion against Dallas saw him score 32 points on 12-of-15 shooting, demonstrating his ability to take over a game. He finished with 18-of-26 shooting overall, including 5-of-9 from beyond the arc, while adding 6 assists and two steals. The 27-year-old outscored Dallas’ starting lineup by himself, a clear statement to critics who have questioned his consistency this season.
The criticism has been fueled by a slight dip in Murray’s overall production this season. He is averaging 19.8 points, 6.0 assists, and 3.9 rebounds while shooting 44.7% from the field and 38.1% from three-point range — numbers that some view as underwhelming for a player with a $52 million annual salary. However, Murray himself has welcomed the scrutiny.
Michael Malone pushed back against the narrative that Murray isn’t meeting expectations, urging critics to remember his significant contributions to the Nuggets’ success.
Malone emphasized that Murray’s recent performance wasn’t an isolated occurrence. Over the Nuggets’ last 18 games, during which they’ve won 13, Murray has averaged 21.9 points on 47.3% shooting from the field and 43.3% from three-point range.
Murray’s postseason track record further cements his importance to the Nuggets. Known for rising to the occasion in the playoffs, Murray has averaged 24.2 points and 6.2 assists in 65 career postseason games, including multiple 50-point performances. His heroics in the 2020 playoffs and decisive plays in the 2023 Finals solidified his reputation as a big-game performer.
The Nuggets currently hold a 24-16 record and are riding a good set of victories. Murray’s resurgence and the team’s cohesion bode well as they aim to defend their title. For Malone, Murray’s critics should focus on the broader context of his contributions and the pressures that come with being a franchise cornerstone.
Murray’s 45-point outburst against Dallas serves as a reminder of his talent and potential to silence critics through performance. With Malone and his teammates firmly behind him, Murray’s journey this season will likely be one of resilience, redemption, and reaffirmation of his place among the NBA’s elite guards. For the Nuggets, his continued growth is key to their hopes of remaining atop the Western Conference.