Denver played two back-to-back games vs. the San Antonio Spurs. One on their home ground and the other in the rival’s area. The first game turned into a disappointment for Michael Malone and Co. because of course, Victor Wembanyama’s side overpowered them. But, Saturday was a turnaround for the Nuggets. The team emerged victorious and Jamal Murray played an important role for them.

After the important bounce back on Saturday, the Denver Nuggets head coach, Michael Malone couldn’t resist speaking about his superstar Jamal Murray. The 27-year-old Canadian assigned himself to a new role for the team at the AT&T Center. Usually, you’d see him go deep into the offensive end, scoring points. A typical catch-and-shoot player. But, what happens when he takes charge of the defense?

Coach Malone is impressed by a whole new defensive player Jamal. The point guard despite not fulfilling his duties as a sharp-shooting is putting in more effort on the other side of the court as well. Therefore, Michael Malone expressed: “I thought Jamal had some really good moments as well. Five steals and six rebounds and he was really active defensively as well. So good team win tonight.” 

With 13 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals, Jamal Murray did a great job in defense. But most importantly, the Denver Nuggets did pull off an incredible game against the Spurs after Friday’s disappointment. However, Malone and Co. barely got any time to catch some rest before the crucial game.

Michael Malone is proud of his team’s win after an odd late-night check-in

“More proud of the group obviously. Tough loss at home last night,” Michael Malone narrated. The Denver Nuggets lost 110-113 to the Spurs on Friday. A three-point loss was indeed disheartening. Moreover, the team had to check in to their hotels (probably in San Antonio) and get enough rest to fuel them for Saturday’s back-to-back showdown. “You get into the hotel around 3:34 and another win on the second of back-to-back,” Malone added.

It’s evident that the HC is proud of the boys because they were: “Tough-minded, resilient, and mentally strong.” Coach Mike further added: “It’s good to get last night’s loss back and to go home and have a chance to get a rest day tomorrow before we get back at practice to prepare for the upcoming home.”  Yes, Jamal Murray was impressive on the defense on Saturday, but the true star of the show was Nikola Jokic who chipped in a whopping 46 points.

But now it’s time to recharge and refuel before Tuesday’s big game against the Boston Celtics. The defending champions are going to be tough opponents for sure. But knowing what a team with Jokic, Russell Westbrook, and young talents like Michael Porter Jr. can do, it’s safe to say it’s going to be a fiery East vs West showdown.