“Why The Nuggets’ Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray Could Be the NBA’s Next Dynamic Duo”

The Denver Nuggets have taken the lead against the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals after a dominant performance in Game 3. Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray were the main catalysts behind Denver’s win, with Jokić posting a remarkable career performance and Murray contributing a triple-double.

Dominant Performance from Jokić

Jokić’s performance was nothing short of sensational, making him the first player in NBA history to post over 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists in a Finals performance. His impressive stat line of 32 points, 21 rebounds, and 10 assists was a true masterpiece on the championship stage. His performance has also earned him a spot in the record books of the NBA.

Perfect Two-Man Game of Denver’s Offense

Murray also played an important role in Denver’s win, contributing a triple-double with 34 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. He and Jokić worked their perfected two-man game, with Murray feeding Jokić in the paint and pulling up into midrange finishes and step-back triples.

Lack of Third Contributor

However, the Nuggets have lacked consistent contribution from a third player in their offense. Aaron Gordon, who dominated the interior in Game 1, has not followed up with similar dominance. Michael Porter Jr. and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope have been ineffective on the perimeter. In Game 3, Christian Braun played a significant role in helping the Nuggets to stem another double-digit Miami comeback. He posted 15 points during his 19 minutes, and his powerful burst on the glass or while attacking a closeout or poking a pass free for a transition finish was impressive.

Miami’s Supporting Cast Ineffective

Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo were the main contributors for Miami, with 28 and 22 points, respectively, but the rest of the supporting cast was ineffective, with only Caleb Martin reaching double digits scoring outside of Miami’s main actors. Miami’s supporting cast was instrumental in their win in Game 2, but they were unable to replicate the same form in Game 3.

Conclusion

For the Nuggets, this win has given them momentum to perhaps steamroll through another battle and close out their first championship in franchise history back at Ball Arena in Game 5. For the Heat, who have not said die once in these playoffs, this loss could be the spark for another comeback tale. The Nuggets‘ dynamic duo of Jokić and Murray has once again proven to be the difference-maker, and if they continue with such performances, they might just clinch the championship.