Nuggets, Pistons Prepare for Exciting Matchup Amid Player Injury Updates

DENVER, Colorado – The Denver Nuggets are gearing up for a back-to-back, starting with a matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday night before facing off against the Detroit Pistons on Friday. As they prepare for these crucial games, the Nuggets are keeping an eye on the injury status of star guard Jamal Murray, who is listed as probable due to left knee inflammation.

During the current 2024-2025 NBA season, Murray has only missed a few games, the last being on February 6 against the Orlando Magic. In that game, the Nuggets secured a solid 22-point victory without him. Having returned from the All-Star break, Murray has performed well in recent games, averaging 23 points on 68 percent shooting from three in outings against the Charlotte Hornets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Indiana Pacers.

“I’m feeling good,” Murray said after the recent games. “I’m just focused on getting back out there with my team and contributing the best I can.”

Heading into Thursday’s action, the Nuggets have been on a roll, winning nine of their last ten games. Murray has been especially productive during February, averaging 25 points and six assists while shooting 52 percent from beyond the arc.

The Pistons, who have enjoyed a winning streak of their own, are also in a competitive position, looking to secure a ninth straight victory as they chase the Bucks for the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference. They are set to host the Nuggets at 7 PM ET on Friday.

In their last game, the Pistons defeated the Boston Celtics, 117-97, thanks to significant contributions from guard Malik Beasley and forward Ausar Thompson. Thompson had a noteworthy performance before leaving the game due to cramping. Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff confirmed post-game that Thompson’s condition was not severe and he would be evaluated again before the Nuggets game.

“Ausar had a great game and we were relieved it was just cramping,” Bickerstaff said. “We’ll see how he feels tomorrow, but I expect him to be fine.”

Thompson had tallied seven points, six rebounds, and five steals during his nearly 27 minutes on the court. He embraced his role as a major defensive presence for the Pistons, significantly contributing to their latest victory.

Meanwhile, Beasley came off the bench to lead the Pistons in scoring with 26 points, shooting 10 of 15 from the field, including six three-pointers. His performance has been critical as Detroit looks to maintain its momentum going into the final stretch of the season.

The Pistons currently hold a 33-26 record and are targeting further improvement in the Eastern Conference standings.

This back-to-back series poses high stakes for both teams, emphasizing the significance of player availability and performance in crucial matchups.