Jamal

Murray

All five third-team selections were named All-NBA for the first time in their respective careers on Sunday. Duren’s selection may be the most impactful, as he’ll hit restricted free agency next month. The All-NBA selection makes him eligible for a max deal worth up to $287 million over five years. However, given his struggles during the postseason and the Pistons’ need to also address Ausar Thompson’s future, Duren may not strike it that rich this summer. Especially with other teams unable to offer a deal on par with what the Pistons can.

Murray struggled on Thursday on both ends of the floor. On offense, the length of Jaden McDaniels sure had an impact, as the veteran point guard had more missed shots than total points. He was also attacked as a one-on-one defender repeatedly down the stretch, ultimately allowing some key Minnesota baskets to close the game. While Murray had a tough time finding his rhythm throughout the series, he had a phenomenal regular season, averaging 25.4 points, 7.1 assists, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.3 three-pointers, which were all career bests. He turned in one of his better fantasy seasons and should be able to perform at a high level again next season.

Murray and the Nuggets lost the second half of Game 4 by 20 points even with the Timberwolves missing multiple starters. Denver was able to turn the page in Game 5. Murray had 24 points, seven assists and four steals in the win. The Nuggets will have to win Game 6 on the road to keep their season alive on Thursday.

Like Nikola Jokić, Game 4 was a tale of two halves for Murray. He shot 5-of-14 from the field in the second half, and the Nuggets were outscored 62-42. Due to Saturday’s defeat, the Nuggets’ season will be on the line when they host Game 5 on Monday. Given how shorthanded the Timberwolves will be, that sets up to be a big night for Murray. That said, many likely assumed Murray would go off in the second half after the Timberwolves lost Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo on Saturday.

Murray had by far his worst game of the series on Thursday. He struggled with the length of Minnesota’s Jaden McDaniels throughout the contest and failed to generate many clean looks. Murray didn’t convert any of his three-point attempts in Game 3, and in addition to his scoring struggles, produced only four assists. Denver’s offense couldn’t figure out Minnesota’s defense in Game 3, and it’ll need to be much better on Saturday.

Murray had it rolling early in Game 2, capping a 23-point first half with a half-court shot as time expired to end the second quarter. However, the Timberwolves buckled down defensively, limiting the Nuggets’ guard to seven second-half points. Murray’s miss of a challenged mid-range jumper led to a Donte DiVincenzo dunk that extended Minnesota’s lead to five with just under four seconds remaining, ending the game. Murray scored 30 points in both games in Denver, but Game 2 felt far different because of the subpar second half.

Murray was ice-cold from beyond the arc in Game 1, missing all eight of his attempts. However, he shot 50 percent from the field and was a frequent visitor to the foul line. The Nuggets guard made all 16 of his attempts at the line, resulting in a 30-point game in Saturday’s series opener. Denver will host Game 2 on Monday at 10:30 PM Eastern on NBA and Peacock.

Murray, Braun and Johnson will remain out for Sunday’s regular-season finale. Tyus Jones, Bruce Brown and Julian Strawther started Friday’s win over the Thunder, and all should get another start on Sunday. For those in active leagues who need scoring, Strawther may be the best option to slot into fantasy lineups.

Murray will join the rest of the Nuggets’ starters on the sidelines for this game. Jalen Pickett should get the starting nod at point guard and has had some monster performances when he has gotten the chance to start this season.

Murray is one of several key Nuggets starters to show up on Thursday’s injury report as questionable. The veteran guard is having a career-best season in terms of scoring, passing, and three-point shooting. If he’s unable to play, the Nuggets will be without their lead ball handler and much of their offensive firepower.