Jamal Murray's Sensational Breakout Performances in the 2020 NBA Playoffs and Finals

Jamal Murray's Journey to the NBA Finals

Jamal Murray has been a revelation for the Denver Nuggets this postseason. The young guard has stepped up his game to become the Nuggets' primary scoring threat, leading them all the way to the NBA Finals against the favored Los Angeles Lakers.

Murray was drafted 7th overall by the Nuggets in 2016 after playing one year at the University of Kentucky. He made the All-Rookie Second Team his first year after averaging 9.9 points per game. His scoring improved to 16.7 points per game in his second season and 18.2 in his third year.

Breakout Playoff Performances

But it's been in the 2020 playoffs that Murray has really broken out. He's averaging 26.6 points, 6.1 assists and 4.8 rebounds per game this postseason while shooting over 50% from the field. Murray had two exceptional performances in closeout games against the Utah Jazz and Los Angeles Clippers, scoring 50 and 40 points respectively to eliminate those teams.

Murray became just the third player in NBA history along with Michael Jordan and Allen Iverson to have multiple 45-point games in a single postseason. At just 23 years old, he is the youngest player ever with two 40-point games in the playoffs.

Historic Scoring Displays

In the first round against Utah, Murray scored 50 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists in Game 4 to help the Nuggets avoid getting swept. Then in Game 6 with Denver facing elimination, he poured in 42 points to force a decisive Game 7 that the Nuggets would ultimately win.

Murray followed that up with two stellar series-clinching performances against the Clippers. In Game 5, he scored 40 points including 6-13 from 3-point range to give Denver a 3-2 series lead. Then in Game 7, Murray scored 21 of his team-high 40 points in the first half to knock out the title-contending Clippers.

Strengths and Weaknesses

At 6'4" and 215 pounds, Murray combines elite scoring ability with great playmaking skills for his position. He can shoot the three, finish strong at the rim and find open teammates. His chemistry with Nuggets center Nikola Jokic forms a lethal offensive combination.

While his offense has reached new heights, Murray's defense remains a work in progress. He has all the tools to develop into a good perimeter defender but lacks consistency on that end currently.

Another area of improvement is Murray's production in the first three quarters. In these playoffs, he's scored an otherworldly 66% of his points in the fourth quarter and overtime. While he excels in the clutch, producing more earlier would make life easier for Denver.

Battling Through Injuries

A testament to Murray's toughness is that he's been battling several nagging injuries during this playoff run. He suffered a bruise in his right thigh early in the first round before spraining his ankle later on. Recently, Murray got a painfully-looking blister on his foot that required frequent re-taping during games.

While these injuries have slowed Murray at times, he has persevered through the pain. His willingness to put his body on the line for his team demonstrates outstanding leadership and character.

What to Expect in the NBA Finals

Despite his youth, Murray has already proven his abilities on the big stage. He's exceeded expectations throughout the playoffs so don't expect him to be intimidated by the Finals atmosphere.

However, the Los Angeles Lakers will pose a much tougher defensive challenge than teams the Nuggets have faced so far. All-Defensive First Team members Anthony Davis and LeBron James will look to make things difficult for Murray.

The Lakers will likely trap and double-team Murray aggressively to force the ball out of his hands. How Murray adapts to these defensive looks could swing the series. He may need to defer more often to Jokic and other teammates when the pressure mounts.

Scoring efficiently against the likes of Davis and James is a daunting task. Murray will have to carefully pick his spots while limiting bad shots and turnovers. He's shown tremendous poise for his age but this is his biggest test yet.

If Murray can continue to put up big numbers against the Lakers' stingy defense, the Nuggets will have a good chance of pulling off another upset. But after a deep playoff run, fatigue could also be a factor for Murray as the Finals progress.

The versatility Murray has displayed makes him an exciting player to watch. Don't expect him to be deterred by the Finals stage. Murray stepping up would give Denver the superstar-level contribution they'll need to take down the favored Lakers.

FAQs

How many points did Jamal Murray score in his 50 point playoff game?

Murray scored 50 points against the Utah Jazz in Game 4 of their first round playoff series.

What was Murray's statline in his 50 point game?

Murray had 50 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists in the 50 point performance against the Jazz.

How many 40+ point games does Jamal Murray have this playoffs?

Murray has two 40-point games this postseason. He scored 50 against the Jazz and 40 against the Clippers in series-clinching wins.

What injuries is Jamal Murray dealing with in the playoffs?

Murray has been battling a thigh bruise, ankle sprain, and a painful blister on his foot during the 2020 playoffs.

Who will defend Jamal Murray in the NBA Finals?

Murray will likely be defended by some combination of LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Alex Caruso for the Lakers in the Finals.