Nuggets’ Jamal Murray shares instant classic moment with Kevin Harlan before halftime

Denver Nuggets star Jamal Murray appears to have regained his typical form after struggling earlier in the team’s series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The 27-year-old has played a central role in the Nuggets’ resurgence after initially falling behind 2-0.

Murray hit a buzzer-beater from beyond half-court to end the first half on Sunday. He then followed it up by staring down TNT commentator Kevin Harlan, instantly creating a viral moment.

Murray’s highlight-reel play ballooned Denver’s lead to 64-49, putting the Wolves in an even deeper hole. The Kentucky alum finished with 19 points on 8-of-17 shooting, with eight assists, five rebounds, and two steals in the 115-107 victory.

The shot and subsequent stare down prompted several funny reactions online. One of the most viral tweets came via Josiah Johnson, executive producer and host of retired NBA player Gilbert Arenas’ podcast Gil’s Arena.

@3onEllis on X also said tweeted the photo of Murray and Harlan, saying “This is getting displayed in the NBA Playoff Museum.”

Murray has now put together two consecutive solid outings after initial struggles in the series. Will he help lead the Nuggets to their second consecutive Western Conference Finals berth?

Jamal Murray continues to be a vital presence for the Nuggets

Murray has now scored 43 points over the last two games, after dropping just 25 over the first two contests. It’s no coincidence that Denver lost the first two and won the second two. While three-time MVP Nikola Jokic is the team’s best player, Murray is an essential piece to the offense. Without him playing well, the Nuggets have no chance to defend their championship.

It isn’t surprising that Minnesota was able to disrupt Denver’s offense in the first couple of games, as it finished first in the league with a 108.4 defensive rating in the regular season. However, the Nuggets also finished fifth with a 117.8 offensive rating. One could say that this is a case of an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object.

With the series now heading back to Denver’s Ball Arena for a pivotal Game 5, Murray has a chance to continue adding to his legacy as one of the best players in franchise history.