The Denver Nuggets are well‑positioned to make another run to the NBA Finals this year. Denver did not make any major acquisitions at this year’s trade deadline, but it makes sense why the group feels confident in its current roster.
Not only do they have one of the best players the league has ever seen in center Nikola Jokic, but he also has one of the strongest supporting casts, headlined by guard Jamal Murray.
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Murray is finally heading to his first All‑Star Game this year in his ninth season. Throughout his first 47 appearances, the 28‑year‑old has averaged 25.9 points, 4.3 rebounds and 7.5 assists while shooting an efficient 48.6% from the field and 43.2% from beyond the arc, with every mark a career high.
He has been so good because he has sharpened his shot creation, become more decisive as a playmaker and consistently delivered in late‑game situations, giving Denver a true second superstar next to Jokic.
Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27)© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
(© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)
During Saturday’s game against the Chicago Bulls, Murray once again put together another strong performance. Across 31 minutes, he collected 28 points on 11‑of‑18 shooting along with three rebounds and 11 assists.
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However, with Denver trying to hold on to its lead late in the fourth quarter, Murray unexpectedly headed back to the locker room with minutes remaining. Although the Nuggets won the game, snapping a three‑game losing streak, attention quickly shifted to Murray’s status as he did not return.
After the game, head coach David Adelman shared a positive update, noting that Murray suffered a left hip issue, but the team remains confident he will be okay after additional testing, according to Vinny Benedetto of The Denver Gazette.
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The Nuggets have two more games before the All‑Star break, both at home, facing the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday and the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday.
Murray has been available for most of the year, but this appears to be another minor setback for a player who has frequently appeared on the injury report with calf and ankle issues. He has continued to push through those problems, which was crucial during the stretch Jokic missed with his hyperextended left knee.
Denver will hope this latest issue remains minor, knowing their championship aspirations hinge on keeping their star backcourt healthy for the months ahead.
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Related: Nuggets Announce Nikola Jokic Injury Update Before Bulls Game
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.