Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray is going to continue his comeback as he's listed “probable” for the December 27 matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers, following his successful return from a right ankle sprain.
Murray showed promising signs in his recent return against the Phoenix Suns, contributing 13 points, six rebounds, and six assists in 29 minutes while shooting 4-10 from the field and 1-2 from beyond the arc.
The Denver Nuggets will need Murray's presence on the court as they face multiple roster challenges. Aaron Gordon (calf strain), DaRon Holmes II (Achilles tendon repair), and Vlatko Cancar (knee surgery rehab) are all confirmed out for the upcoming game.
Jamal Murray's history against the Cavaliers suggests a potential for a strong performance, with career averages of 18.9 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists across 13 games, including a memorable 50-point explosion in 2021.
Murray and Jokic of the Nuggets (Image via Getty)
If we were to move away from tonight’s game a little, despite Murray’s contribution to the Nuggets, a trade speculation has emerged around the championship-winning guard. Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins recently proposed a controversial trade scenario, suggesting the Nuggets should consider swapping Murray for Sacramento Kings' De'Aaron Fox.
The trade discussion comes amid Murray's inconsistent 2024-25 campaign, where he's averaging 18.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game - his lowest scoring output since the 2018-19 season.
Despite these rumors and statistical dips, Murray's integral role in Denver's 2023 championship run makes any potential trade unlikely. His chemistry with NBA MVP Nikola Jokic and playoff experience remain valuable assets for the defending champions.
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Denver Nuggets will look to Murray to regain his championship form as they face a competitive Cavaliers team, balancing immediate game preparation with longer-term championship defense plans.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Denver Nuggets projected starters for tonight (December 27, 2024)
Projected starters for the Cavaliers
| Player | Number | Position | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
| Donovan Mitchell | #45 | G | 23.3 | 4.6 | 4.6 |
| Darius Garland | #10 | G | 20.4 | 2.6 | 6.4 |
| Dean Wade | #32 | F-C | 5.7 | 4.8 | 1.4 |
| Jarrett Allen | #31 | C | 13.0 | 10.0 | 1.8 |
| Evan Mobley | #4 | C | 18.5 | 9.0 | 2.9 |
Projected starters for the Nuggets
| Player | Number | Position | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
| Jamal Murray | #27 | G | 18.8 | 4.2 | 6.1 |
| Christian Braun | #0 | G | 14.0 | 5.0 | 2.0 |
| Peyton Watson | #8 | G | 8.5 | 3.5 | 1.4 |
| Michael Porter Jr. | #1 | F | 18.4 | 6.8 | 2.8 |
| Nikola Jokić | #15 | C | 30.7 | 12.6 | 9.4 |
The Cavaliers will be visiting Jamal Murray's Nuggets tonight.
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