NBA roundup: Murray's buzzer-beater lifts Nuggets over Lakers

Jamal Murray hit the game-winning shot at the last second to help the NBA titleholder Denver Nuggets overcome a 20-point disadvantage and defeat the Los Angeles Lakers 101-99 on Monday, securing a 2-0 advantage in their Western Conference playoff matchup.

Nikola Jokic recorded a triple-double with 27 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists for Denver, while Murray found his rhythm in the fourth quarter, scoring 14 of his 20 points during that period.

Denver extended their winning streak against LeBron James and the Lakers to 10 games, including a sweep in last season's Western Conference finals.

Despite Anthony Davis' 32 points and 11 rebounds leading the Lakers for most of the game, the Nuggets managed to chip away at the lead and tied the game at 95-95 with 1:15 left on the clock.

Although James put the Lakers ahead 99-97 with a layup, Murray tied the game once again with a step-back jumper with 30 seconds remaining.

Following a missed three-point attempt by James, Murray hit a fall-away jumper over Davis with just four-tenths of a second left to secure the victory.

Murray informed the TNT broadcaster that he had informed his teammates of his struggles and his intention to seek their support. Each of them encouraged him to continue shooting and to maintain his aggressive approach.

He mentioned that he had the ball with only a few seconds remaining and was confident that after making a few shots, the next one would go in. Murray described how he managed to beat his opponent to his desired position, elevate, and execute his shot successfully. He expressed gratitude that this particular shot was one of the few that went in for him.

In New York, the Knicks managed to take the lead over the Sixers for the first time in the third quarter, despite Joel Embiid's evident discomfort due to pain in his surgically repaired left knee. The Sixers seemed to have regained control when Tyrese Maxey made a crucial three-pointer with just over a minute left, putting them ahead 100-96.

However, Jalen Brunson's three-pointer brought the Knicks within two points, and a steal by Josh Hart led to Donte DiVincenzo making a three-pointer after missing his initial attempt, giving the Knicks a 102-101 lead. OG Anunoby then secured the victory for the Knicks with a pair of free throws at an exuberant Madison Square Garden.

The defeat was a devastating blow for Philadelphia, who had been leading by five points with less than a minute remaining.

The 76ers expressed their frustration over the officials' failure to grant them a time-out during crucial moments, with Embiid criticizing the missed foul calls. Embiid emphasized the team's efforts to call for a time-out, but to no avail.

Despite the time-out issue, Embiid highlighted the numerous fouls that were overlooked, deeming the situation unacceptable. Despite feeling disheartened, Embiid remained resolute, stating that they should have been leading 2-0 in the series.

He confidently asserted that the team will emerge victorious, emphasizing their superiority and determination to keep fighting. The series will now move to Philadelphia for the next game.