In an electrifying matchup on Monday night, the Denver Nuggets engineered a stunning turnaround to snatch a 101-99 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, seizing a 2-0 lead in the Western Conference playoff series.
Jamal Murray sank a 15-foot step-back jumper at the buzzer and the Denver Nuggets wiped out a 20-point second-half deficit to stun the Los Angeles Lakers 101-99 Monday night and take a 2-0 lead in their Western Conference playoff series.
The tide turned dramatically in the Nuggets’ favor as Murray’s fadeaway shot, executed while falling down, clinched the victory, marking the Nuggets’ first lead since the early minutes of the game. The win also marked the reigning NBA champions’ 10th consecutive victory over the Lakers.
The decisive moment unfolded after LeBron James missed a long-range attempt with 16 seconds remaining, leaving the game tied at 99. Michael Porter Jr. grabbed the rebound with 13 seconds left. Murray took the ball to the right side with Anthony Davis guarding him and hit a step-back jumper as the buzzer sounded.
Murray concluded the game with a total of 20 points, notably contributing 14 points in the pivotal fourth quarter. Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic showcased his all-around prowess by notching a triple-double, tallying 27 points, securing 20 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists. Additionally, Michael Porter Jr. contributed 22 points to Denver’s effort, while Aaron Gordon chipped in with 14 points of his own.
On the Lakers’ side, Davis led the Lakers with 32 points, James had 26 and D’Angelo Russell added 23 with a career playoff-high seven 3s.
The Lakers had dominated the first half, leading 59-44 at halftime and extending their advantage to 68-48 early in the second half. However, the Nuggets’ resilience and Murray’s clutch play turned the game on its head, securing a memorable victory.
The series shifts to Los Angeles for Game 3 Thursday night.
