Jamal Murray Returns to Boost Nuggets’ Playoff Push Amid Coaching Shakeup DENVER — Jamal Murray, initially listed as doubtful due to right hamstring inflammation, was upgraded to questionable and ultimately cleared to play in Friday night’s pivotal 117-109 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, marking his first appearance since March 26. The Denver Nuggets’ star guard logged 32 minutes, contributing 15 points, seven assists, and five rebounds in a comeback win that solidified the team’s Western Conference playoff positioning.

Pre-Game Uncertainty and Late Clearance Murray’s status remained fluid throughout Friday, with interim head coach David Adelman noting the guard was “trending toward playing” during pregame warmups. The Nuggets’ medical staff upgraded him to questionable earlier in the day, a signal of his improving condition. By tip-off, Murray was cleared, receiving a roaring ovation during pregame introductions—his first since injuring his right hamstring last month.

Clutch Performance in Critical Stretch Despite a slow start from three-point range (1-4 3PT), Murray’s playmaking proved vital during Denver’s decisive 14-1 run in the final six minutes. His chemistry with Nikola Jokic, who secured his 34th triple-double (26 points, 16 rebounds, 12 assists) to become the third player in NBA history to average a triple-double for a season, anchored the Nuggets’ late surge.

Interim Coach Adelman’s Impact The win extended Denver’s record to 2-0 under Adelman, who took over after Mike Malone’s abrupt firing earlier in the week. Murray praised the team’s resilience postgame, stating, “We believe. We’re playing with confidence, positivity… It’s been a great start since the change”.

Playoff Implications and Sunday’s Showdown With the victory, Denver improved to 49-32, setting up a high-stakes regular-season finale against the Houston Rockets on Sunday. Murray, now upgraded to available despite lingering hamstring inflammation, will aim to help secure the No. 4 seed—a scenario requiring a win or specific outcomes from other games.

Murray’s Value Amid Trade Rumors The timing of Murray’s return carries added weight following reports that Denver explored trading him last summer. His season averages (21.5 points, 6.1 assists) and late-game poise—evident in his 39-point explosion against Houston in March—remain central to the Nuggets’ championship aspirations.

Looking Ahead As Denver prepares for Houston, Murray’s health will be closely monitored. A win guarantees a top-four seed, while a loss risks relegation to the Play-In Tournament—a fate the Nuggets hope to avoid with their backcourt leader back in rhythm.

Key Quote “I live for this,” Murray said of his clutch play. “I dreamed about this as a kid in my backyard counting down the shot clock”.

Up Next: The Nuggets face the Rockets at 3:30 p.m. EST Sunday, with Jokic fully available and Murray expected to play through discomfort.