The Nuggets choked on Tuesday night, getting outscored by 22 points in the second half to lose at home to the Lakers, 115-107. Jamal Murray was completely stifled, held to just 2 points on 1-6 shooting after the break as LA made a huge comeback in Ball Arena. Despite the collapse, LeBron James had nothing but effusive praise for Murray after the game.
James was asked specifically about Murray and his quest to become an All-Star for the first time, and he practically started gushing:
“I’ve seen his numbers as of late ‘cuz we scouted him today, and he’s been playing exceptionally well, shooting the ball at a high level, scoring at a high level, they’ve been able to stay afloat, they’ve won some big games without Jokic. I think he’s an All-Star player for sure. When he’s on the floor, he’s an all-star point guard; he’s an all-star caliber player. That’s for the coaches to decide, but I think he’s an All-Star.”
So, I think it’s safe to say that Murray has LeBron’s vote to make an All-Star team. The second half was awful, but Jamal was incredible in the first two quarters, lighting up the Lakers for 26 points and 7 assists before the break, which helped Denver to a 71-57 halftime lead.
A big part of the Lakers’ comeback was doubling Murray and forcing his teammates to beat them, which they were unable to do. So, even struggling late, Jamal’s impact was crystal clear, and LeBron and the Lakers recognized that stopping him was their only chance.
LeBron and Murray competing for West All-Star reserve spot
The funny thing about this endorsement from LeBron is that he, himself, is also vying to make the All-Star team as a reserve in the Western Conference. Based on merit this season alone, James doesn’t have much of a case. His numbers are down, he barely plays defense, he’s missed a bunch of games, and his team is sixth in the West with him being arguably their third-best player.
But we all know this isn’t completely based on merit. LeBron is the star of stars, and to have an All-Star Game in LA without him feels crazy. At 41-years old, he’s not what he once was, but he’s still a great player, and as big a star as ever.
One way or another, I think Adam Silver is going to make sure that LeBron is playing in that game. Hopefully, he won’t take the spot of a more “deserving” player like Murray, but don’t be shocked if that’s the case.
Luckily for Jamal, he has played well enough that he should be a lock to make the squad and one of the first reserves selected. If a fringe guy gets cut to make room for LBJ, it won’t be Murray. Furthermore, while they are competing as West reserves, that’s where it ends. Murray is a guard, while James is a forward, plus Murray will represent the international team, while James, of course, is American.