Will Jamal Murray Play Tonight? Denver Nuggets vs Oklahoma City Thunder: Injury Report, Lineups & Pick

Before the season began, nobody could have predicted that the Oklahoma City Thunder will be traveling to Colorado at this point of the season with a superior record (6-6) than the Denver Nuggets (6-7). But then again, that’s the sheer unpredictable nature of the NBA.

Date: 19th January’21, 6 pm PT

Venue: Pepsi Center, Denver

Preview | Denver Nuggets

There are a lot of expectations on this team after they surprised spectators with their play in the Bubble. But so far, they have flattered to deceive. Though it does not help their cause that Michael Porter Jr. has been out for so long. His prolonged absence has been because of the league’s strict health and safety protocols. Naturally, he is set to miss this one out as well.

Nikola Jokic has been their rock this season while others around him far too inconsistent. He is astonishingly averaging a triple-double this one. Hence, his 25 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 10.3 assists have put him in MVP contention.

But personal goals aside, Mike Malone & Co. have to come together as a cohesive unit. Also, Murray has been playing every game this season, but the coach can’t afford to rest him for this one. The minimum target for them is Top 8, and a win here can kick-start a run.

Starting 5 for the Denver Nuggets

Guard – Jamal Murray

Guard – Gary Harris

Center – Nikola Jokic

Forward – Paul Millsap

Forward – Will Barton

Preview | Oklahoma City Thunder

These past couple of seasons have seen them lose top-level All-Star players such as George, Westbrook, and Chris Paul. But they have a plethora of drift picks traded in exchange. So, for a team that is building for the future, 6-6 is a pretty decent record.

OKC is heading into this contest with a closely fought victory against the Chicago Bulls. It was courtesy of a fine 33 point effort from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He will be their key player yet again.

Starting 5 for the Oklahoma City Thunder

Guard – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Guard – George Hill

Center – Isaiah Roby

Forward – Darius Bazley

Forward – Luguentz Dort

Predictions | Nuggets vs Thunder

While their offense has been firing on all cylinders, their defense is leaking points. And that is precisely the reason why the Nuggets don’t enter this contest as the favorites.

On the other hand, the Thunder is a more cohesive unit behind the ball. So, fans can expect this to be an even game with a win for the taking both the both of them.