In Game 5, the Denver Nuggets, led by Jamal Murray’s stellar 32-point performance, triumphed over the Los Angeles Lakers 108-106, thanks to Murray’s clutch shot in the dying moments of the game, thereby ending LeBron James’ playoff journey once more.

Despite nursing a strained calf, Jamal Murray notched an impressive 32 points.
Nikola Jokic contributed significantly with 25 points, 20 rebounds, and nine assists.
LeBron James led the Lakers with 30 points and 11 assists.

The Nuggets now move forward to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round.
Denver boasts a formidable home record, standing at 36-8, including an unblemished 3-0 record in the playoffs.
This victory marks the Nuggets’ 12th win over the Lakers in their last 13 encounters.

The Nuggets’ next challenge awaits as they prepare to battle the Minnesota Timberwolves in the upcoming second-round series, leveraging the momentum gained from their successful outing against the Lakers.

Although the Denver Nuggets boast a two-time MVP in Nikola Jokic, when it comes down to crunch time, it’s clear who they trust to take the decisive shots in the closing seconds. This was evident in both Game 2 and Game 5. Jamal Murray once again proves himself as the go-to player, guiding his team to victory in the second round while simultaneously eliminating the Lakers for the second consecutive season.

Now, the Nuggets have a brief period of rest before diving into what promises to be an electrifying series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, seeded third. The anticipation is high, with Game 1 scheduled for Saturday. It’s shaping up to be essential viewing for basketball fans everywhere.

Jamal Murray made a shot, again. Murray, actually made quite a few of them on Monday night, finishing with 32 points. But the last one mattered the most. Similar to the 20-point comeback in game two, the Nuggets had the final possession with the scored tied at 106. Once again, Coach Malone decided to let it play out, not call a timeout. That’s when Murray hit a mid-range jumper over Austin Reaves, and called game, 108-106 Nuggets win in five.

Behind Murray’s 32 points, Michael Porter Jr. and Nikola Jokic combined for 51 points. The Nuggets as a team had a much better night shooting that the previous four games (47% FG, 42% 3PT.)

The Nuggets trailed at the half in all five games in this first round series, but displayed some impressive fight down the stretch to advance.

Now, Denver will face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference semi-finals. Minnesota swept the Phoenix Suns in the first round. Denver and Minnesota split their regular season series 2-2.