In today's game, Jamal Murray has exactly four 40-point games each in the season and playoffs. At the 1:47 mark in the fourth, he broke the deadlock.
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Playoff J and MPJ Save the Day
It was close up to that point when Murray secured his 40-piece. It was his fifth career playoff game hitting at least 40 points, one more than his all-time season record. A record that matters not if the top team in the Western Conference gets booted out by an eighth seed.
The Denver Nuggets were in complete control in the first half, with the Minnesota Timberwolves struggling to buy a bucket. The Wolves were shooting at a mere 39% from the field, a ten-point improvement from their uninspired Game 1 clip of 29%, but still way below league average.
Then they suddenly got into the groove. Down 15 at the half, the Wolves pushed the tempo and hit 17 of 21 in the third, for 40 points. They lead the Nuggets 89-87 heading into the final frame.
Michael Malone was furious. "They shot 80% in the third quarter - 80%!" he exclaimed. "So, we didn't play any defense. That's what happened!" The Nuggets are the number 1 defensive team in the league. Malone has every right to be disgusted at the 17-point turnaround.
Michael Porter, Jr, was probably apologetic, scoring 8 straight points, including a 4-point play 14 seconds into the fourth quarter. Jamal Murray continued his scoring barrage and sunk two more threes for six in the game.
Anthony Edwards also made six from a long distance. He led all scorers with 41. The Wolves go back home with an 0-2 baggage.
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