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Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone came to the defense of star guard Jamal Murray after the player’s season-high 45-point performance in a 118-99 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. The win, which marked Denver’s fourth consecutive victory, saw Murray dominate the game, particularly in the first half, where he scored 32 points on 12-for-15 shooting.

Despite Murray’s strong showing, the 26-year-old has faced heavy criticism this season for his inconsistency, especially given his four-year, $208 million extension signed in the offseason. Malone, however, pushed back against the mounting pressure on Murray, urging for more understanding from the public.

“I think the microscope on Jamal is a little intense,” Malone said after the game, per ESPN’s Tim MacMahon. “Everybody’s just got to let the kid breathe a little bit. He’s not perfect.”

Murray’s performance against Dallas was a statement game, as he finished 18-for-26 from the field and hit five of nine three-pointers. He added six assists and two steals, nearly surpassing his career-high of 50 points. The Nuggets’ victory improved their record to 24-15, keeping them firmly in the playoff hunt in the Western Conference.

“We’ve got to remember, Jamal didn’t pay himself $52 million [per season],” Malone continued. “We did that as an organization because we believe in him.”

In the 118-99 victory over the Mavericks, Murray’s performance was a key factor in the team’s success. He led the Nuggets’ offense, supported by solid contributions from teammates like Michael Porter Jr. (13 points) and Nikola Jokic, who recorded a double-double with 10 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists.

The Mavericks, who were missing Luka Doncic due to injury, struggled to find their rhythm. Kyrie Irving, returning after a five-game absence, shot just 4-for-18 from the field, finishing with 11 points. Dallas also suffered an early setback when Dereck Lively II exited the game with a right ankle sprain.

Malone’s words echoed a common theme for the Nuggets: Murray’s growth as a leader is more than just about his offensive output. “We don’t win our first franchise championship without Jamal Murray averaging 21, 10, and 6,” Malone said, referring to Murray’s crucial role during the 2023 NBA Finals, where the Nuggets clinched their first-ever championship.