Jamal Murray addressed the Denver Nuggets’ blowout loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday night, emphasizing the need for urgency and togetherness ahead of Game 4.
The Nuggets were outplayed in a 117-83 defeat at the Intuit Dome, falling behind 2-1 in their first-round playoff series.
Speaking postgame, Murray acknowledged the physicality the Clippers brought early on, saying, “They showed that they wanted it more. They had an opportunity to take control of the series and that’s what they did.”
The All-Star guard cited turnovers and poor offensive rhythm as key issues, pointing to the Clippers’ aggressive defensive schemes as a disruptor.
“They’re doubling and we’re just throwing the ball at the first thing we see,” Murray said. “We got to trust each other and swing the ball more.”
The reigning champions managed just 83 points, their lowest total of the season, and trailed by double digits for most of the night.
Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while James Harden and Norman Powell each added 20.
Murray also highlighted Nicolas Batum’s surprising impact, calling the veteran wing an “X factor” and praising his energy and court awareness.
“Batum is crazy. He’s 36 and spacing the floor, shooting no-dip threes, pressing full-court,” Murray said. “We got to take that away.”
The Clippers’ defense held Denver to 38.3% shooting and forced 17 turnovers, stifling both Murray and Nikola Jokić throughout the contest.
Murray dismissed the idea that Jokic needs to be more aggressive, instead placing responsibility on the team to provide better off-ball movement and spacing.
“He’s getting triple-teamed. We’ve got to help him more,” Murray said. “It can’t just be ‘go make a play, big fella.’”
Defensively, Murray echoed assistant coach David Adelman’s call for more physicality, insisting it’s a matter of mindset.
“We just got to go for it,” he said. “We’ll win next game.”
Despite the lopsided result, the 27-year-old remained optimistic, citing past playoff experiences and the importance of clear communication among teammates.
“This is what it’s all about,” Murray said. “Back against the wall. We got to show up for next game.”
Game 4 will be played Sunday in Los Angeles, where the Nuggets must respond to avoid falling into a 3-1 hole in the series.
