Michael Malone Shuts Down Claims Of Intentionally Resting Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray Just Before The Lakers MatchupMichael Malone Shuts Down Claims Of Intentionally Resting Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray Just Before The Lakers Matchup
Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic (Photo by Isaiah J. Downing/Imagn Images)
The Denver Nuggets recently took on the Los Angeles Lakers in a highly competitive game at Crypto.com Arena. The matchup was particularly challenging for the Nuggets, as they were without their star players, Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.
Murray was sidelined with a sprained right ankle and struggled to move before the game. Jokic was also unavailable due to a left ankle impingement and a contusion on his right shooting elbow. In the post-game interview, head coach Michael Malone conveyed his frustration regarding the widespread belief that the Nuggets are opting to rest both Jokic and Murray, particularly against rivals they are vying with for playoff positioning within the fiercely competitive Western Conference.
“I think that’s just a bunch of bulls…I mean, in the last 10 years, Nikola Jokic has played the second-most games in the NBA. Ten years. And the guys in that top 10, none of them are superstars. So, if Nikola is not playing, it’s not because he’s sitting. It’s not because he needs rest. It’s because he’s hurt and he’s trying to play through things that most wouldn’t. We’re at a point right now where we have to do what’s best for not just Nikola but for all our guys as we move forward and try to close out this season.” Malone said (via ESPN).
In Jokic’s and Murray’s absence, Aaron Gordon delivered an outstanding performance, achieving a double-double with 26 points and 11 rebounds in 30 minutes of play. Despite his impressive efforts, the team fell short as the Lakers secured a 120-108 victory.
Nikola Jokic’s Injury Update
Nikola Jokic (Photo by Ron Chenoy/Imagn Images)
Jokic has consistently showcased remarkable performances throughout the exciting 2024-25 NBA season, securing his position at the pinnacle of the KIA NBA MVP Ladder. However, his recent injury has understandably heightened anxiety among fans. Fortunately, head coach Michael Malone has shared crucial updates about Jokic’s health.
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“Nuggets coach Michael Malone expects to have more clarity tomorrow on whether Nikola Jokic and/or Jamal Murray will play in Portland on Friday. Malone projected Murray is on a faster track to return than Jokic is.” Via NBA Insider Mark Medina.
The Nuggets are currently in 4th place in the Western Conference with a 44-26 record. Their next game is against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center.
