Jamal Murray Shines with 33 Points as Nuggets Defeat Mavericks 118-109

Jamal Murray delivered an impressive performance, scoring 33 points as the Denver Nuggets defeated the Dallas Mavericks 118-109 on March 6, 2024. The victory was overshadowed by the injury of rookie sensation Cooper Flagg, who sprained his left ankle and did not return for the second half.

The game took a turn when Flagg stumbled to the court after being called for a foul while defending Peyton Watson with 6:01 remaining in the second quarter. Although Flagg initially returned to play for the final 2:35 of the half, he was ultimately ruled out for the remainder of the contest. The 19-year-old former Duke standout managed to score six points in his brief appearance.

Murray’s scoring prowess, complemented by Aaron Gordon‘s 22 points and Watson‘s 18 points, allowed the Nuggets to maintain their lead despite a late surge from the Mavericks. Naji Marshall led Dallas with 24 points, while Brandon Williams contributed 20 points. However, the Mavericks struggled significantly from beyond the arc, shooting just 14.7% (5 of 34), their worst performance of the season.

As the game progressed, the Mavericks managed to cut a 23-point deficit to just five early in the fourth quarter, thanks to a 3-pointer from rookie Ryan Nembhard. But Denver responded decisively, with former Maverick Tim Hardaway hitting a three-pointer to ignite a 13-2 run, extending their lead to 101-85. Murray capped that run with another three-pointer, showcasing his clutch shooting ability.

In the final moments, the Mavericks attempted to rally, pulling within six points with 1:12 left on the clock. Yet, Murray’s jumper just above the free-throw line and Gordon’s two successful free throws sealed the Nuggets’ victory.

Dallas faced additional challenges as they ruled out starting center Daniel Gafford in the second half due to a right ankle sprain. This injury compounded the team’s difficulties, as they were already missing 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis for approximately six weeks due to ligament damage in his left hand and Dereck Lively II, who is out for the season following foot surgery.

Looking ahead, the Nuggets will host the Washington Wizards on Saturday, kicking off a three-game homestand, while the Mavericks prepare for consecutive home games against the Utah Jazz starting Thursday. The absence of key players could significantly impact both teams as they navigate the remainder of the season.