Initial thoughts from the Nuggets’ Game 3 Western Conference Semifinal win over the Timberwolves:
Murray the Bad Guy is a Good Thing: Jamal Murray wanted the smoke more than the Marlboro Man. Booed relentlessly each time he touched the ball, Murray met the moment, embracing the villain role. After serving as a ghost in the first halves of the first two games, Murray erupted for 18 points in the first 24 minutes. It included a pair of 3s, chirping at the crowd and a doublecheck to his own bench after a 23-footer. It was his best start in the playoffs. He preferred not to discuss his childish actions in Game 2 that landed him a $100,000 suspension. But his play spoke volumes. Playoff Jamal returned with a vengeance, and this is now a series again.
No need to Cry Foul: Coach Michael Malone trusted his team would respond after Monday’s embarrassment. They were too good, too prideful not to punch back. What the Nuggets could not predict is that they would get a favorable whistle. Tony Brothers’ crew called a tight game, benefitting the Nuggets as Jaden McDaniels picked up three fouls in the first half, eliminating a switch option on Murray in the halfcourt that the Nuggets exploited. How well were things going for Denver? The hometown crowd spent more time screaming “Refs You (Stink)!” than cheering for the home team. The only issue? There was an incident in the fourth quarter involving a Timberwolves fan and Malone. The fan was escorted from his courtside seat to the exits.
No Joking Around: MVP Nikola Jokic is admired for his court vision and passing. But for the Nuggets to win this series, they need him to shoot more. He accepted the challenge and led Denver in attempts with 21. He finished with 24 points and a plus-30 rating after a minus-22 in Game 2. It was as if Murray passed the baton, letting Jokic temper any rally the Timberwolves mounted in the second half. Jokic loves the beautiful game. On this night, he rolled up his sleeves and got his hands dirty. The physicality sent a message that the Nuggets were not going to back down.
