After the Denver Nuggets were eliminated in a dramatic Game 7 by the Minnesota Timberwolves, Jamal Murray reflected on the team’s new position as underdogs. In a post-game press conference, Murray emphasized a shift in mentality, saying:
“It’s back to being the hunters. It’s back to fighting for something with a different type of edge.”
“We beat them in the first round last year, and I know that stuck with them because they’re such a good team. They came in this year with motivation, and they showed it.”
"It's back to being the hunters. It's back to fighting for something with a different type of edge."
Jamal Murray following Denver's Game 7 loss pic.twitter.com/VdhLlswA80
— NBA TV (@NBATV) May 20, 2024
Murray delivered a stellar individual performance in Game 7, scoring 35 points, grabbing 3 rebounds, and dishing out 3 assists. He shot 13-of-27 from the field and 4-of-12 from three-point range.
Despite his efforts, the series overall was challenging for Murray. He averaged 18.4 points, 4.4 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, shooting 40.3% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc. These numbers were a drop from his first-round performance against the Lakers, where he averaged 23.6 points, 7.2 assists, and 4.6 rebounds, albeit with similar shooting struggles.
The Timberwolves’ Game 7 victory was historic, marking the largest comeback in NBA playoff history for a Game 7. Trailing by 20 points in the second half, Minnesota rallied to win 98-90.
Anthony Edwards, who had a quiet first half with just four points, erupted in the second half to finish with 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. Karl-Anthony Towns and Jaden McDaniels each contributed 23 points, while Naz Reid provided crucial support in the fourth quarter.
This loss adds to a concerning trend for the Nuggets, who have become the fifth consecutive defending champion to fail to reach the conference finals. Despite leading by 15 points at halftime and extending the lead to 20 early in the third quarter, Denver could not withstand Minnesota’s defensive intensity.
The Timberwolves, the NBA’s top defensive team, clawed their way back with a 28-9 run to close the third quarter, setting up a tense final period.
Murray’s post-game comments encapsulated the frustration and resolve felt by the Nuggets. With this elimination, Denver now faces an offseason of introspection and regrouping, aiming to return with the same hunger and determination that fueled their previous successes. As they shift from being the hunted to the hunters, the Nuggets will look to channel this season’s disappointments into future triumphs.
Michael Malone Vows The Nuggets Will Be Back
Following the Denver Nuggets‘ heartbreaking Game 7 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, head coach Michael Malone delivered a resolute message to his team and fans. Despite the disappointment of falling short in their bid for a second consecutive NBA title, Malone emphasized resilience and determination.
“This is just a momentary delay. Failure is not fatal. We’ll be back.”
“This is just a momentary delay. Failure is not fatal. We'll be back.”
Michael Malone on the Nuggets going forward 🗣️
(via @MikeAScotto)pic.twitter.com/zErz5RSzxM
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 20, 2024
The Nuggets had led by 20 points in the third quarter, only to see their advantage evaporate as the Timberwolves mounted a historic comeback, ultimately winning 98-90. Minnesota’s rally from a 53-38 halftime deficit was the largest comeback in a Game 7 in NBA postseason history.
Jamal Murray, who scored 35 points in the game, echoed Malone’s sentiments, expressing frustration over the missed opportunity but also highlighting the team’s fatigue. Nikola Jokic also contributed significantly with 34 points, but the collective exhaustion was evident. The Nuggets had shown great resilience throughout the series, recovering from losing the first two games at home to force a decisive Game 7.
Despite the ultimate outcome, Malone’s vow to return stronger reflects the enduring spirit and potential of his team. As they regroup and refocus, the Nuggets remain determined to reclaim their position as NBA champion.
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