Last Starter Standing Jamal Murray’s Status in Doubt as Decimated Nuggets Visit Cleveland
DENVER, Jan. 2 — The Denver Nuggets are rapidly running out of bodies. Just 48 hours after pulling off a gritty, shorthanded miracle in Toronto, the franchise’s resilience is facing its stiffest test yet. Jamal Murray, the lone remaining healthy starter from opening night, has been added to the injury report with a right ankle sprain ahead of Friday night’s showdown against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
While Murray is officially listed as probable, his inclusion on the report sends a shudder through a fanbase already reeling from a brutal winter. If Murray cannot go, or is limited, Denver faces the terrifying prospect of taking the floor in Cleveland without its entire starting five.
A Victory at a Cost
The anxiety surrounding Murray’s ankle stems from the heavy burden he carried on Wednesday. In a 106-103 victory over the Raptors that head coach Michael Malone dubbed “character-defining,” Murray played 38 grueling minutes. He finished with 21 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, orchestrating the offense in the absence of three-time MVP Nikola Jokic.
That win was a testament to Denver’s “next man up” mentality, but the physical toll is mounting. Murray has been the team’s iron man this season, missing only one of 33 games, but the sheer volume of usage required to keep the offense afloat without Jokic (knee), Aaron Gordon (hamstring), and Michael Porter Jr. (illness) is pushing him to the limit.
The ‘Probable’ Gamble
The “probable” tag usually suggests a player will suit up, but for Denver, the margin for error has vanished. The Cavaliers present a formidable challenge, and attempting to weather their length and athleticism with a rotation composed almost entirely of reserves and G-League call-ups is a daunting strategic puzzle.
If Murray plays, he will likely be less than 100%, forced to create offense on a bad wheel against one of the East’s stingiest defenses. If he sits, the keys to the franchise temporarily pass to a backcourt rotation that was fighting for roster spots just months ago.
For a team trying to tread water until their MVP returns, Friday night isn’t just a game; it’s a survival check.
