The Denver Nuggets lost a very close game to the Los Angeles Clippers, 111-102, with a great performance by Jamal Murray, who marked his comeback with 23 points and six assists. Michael Porter Jr. was brilliant with 18 points on eight shots, but the real story came from the rare off-night of Nikola Jokic, who went nine of thirty-two. Paul George scored 25 and James Harden scored 20 to add to the Clippers’ victory, reflecting their new identity formed after the former joined them. Amidst the disappointment, Murray shared a thought-provoking piece of advice for his opponent, Harden.
Murray’s Call for Harden to Unleash His Shot
As the Nuggets struggled to maintain their early lead, Jamal Murray emerged as a voice of insight. Murray wants Harden to score more than he is known to do, and he advises him to play more aggressively. Murray said, there is an apparent tactical tip for the Los Angeles Clippers’ star guard. “I would like him to shoot more, honestly! He can shoot it! … He does a good job playing at his own pace and getting other guys involved”.
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Jamal Murray on what he's seen from James Harden with the Clippers:
“I would like him to shoot more, honestly! He can shoot it! … He does a good job playing at his own pace and getting other guys involved.”
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) December 7, 2023
Murray’s view helps us understand the complexities that go beyond the last score of the game. Nuggets may be lacking in terms of performance, but they are keen enough on having Harden be a powerful contender in the playground. How Murray has recognized that such a player needs to understand how to run the game speaks volumes to his understanding of the game.
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The friendly but competitive rivalry among peers reflects the spirit of the NBA, where despite losing, players still become an audience who learn from each other and offer their constructive comments to improve play.
Clippers’ resurgence and the impact of Harden
Beating the defending champions ended a long losing streak for the Clippers against the Nuggets, and it signified a new era for them. The victory was mainly due to a strong show by Paul George. Harden and Leonard also did well. With the help of James Harden, the Clippers managed to find their identity and are now at a.500 record (10-10).
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Harden’s two-pronged scoring and playmaking led to Houston’s successful comeback after starting behind Denver. His working with Kawhi Leonard, especially during an 11-point lead, demonstrated what their future could be based on working together. Norman Powell had the last word on his contribution off the bench and added to the Clippers’ resurgence.
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After the heated confrontation, the Clippers’ win served a vital purpose—it showed that they could win with Harden. The NBA landscape will be aware of an intimidating force that supersedes individual brilliance and focuses on teamwork and adaptability as the Clippers begin to bond.