Tonight, the Denver Nuggets played host to the Boston Celtics in a marquee nationally televised cross-conference matchup. However, what was supposed to be the game of the night went sideways once Nuggets star guard Jamal Murray seemingly exited the game early in the first half. Here’s what happened to him.

Why Did Jamal Murray Leave the Game? What Injury Did He Suffer?

Jamal Murray started tonight’s game against the Celtics after being cleared earlier tonight from a hamstring injury. However, Murray reportedly showed up significantly ill for tonight’s game but told the coaching staff he would be able to play.

However, after playing most of the first quarter, the guard checked out and didn’t come back. On the broadcast, it was revealed that Murray had headed to the locker room due to illness and is questionable to return tonight.

Soon afterwards, it was revealed that Murray had been ruled out and would not be returning that night.

How Did Jamal Murray Perform Before Leaving?

Jamal Murray didn’t live up to expectations tonight. In just under eight minutes on the floor, the guard logged two points and an assist, but missed both his attempted threes. This is a blemish on an otherwise successful season.

Murray is having his best season to date with the Nuggets this year. Usually using the regular season to wind up into shape, Murray came into the season firing this time, averaging career-highs with 25.5 points and 7.5 assists per game on excellent long-range efficiency, connecting on 42.3% of his 7.5 threes per game, making this his best shooting season to date.

How Did the Denver Nuggets Adjust Without Murray?

Replacing Jamal Murray’s production is no easy feat for the Nuggets, especially in his first All-Star season. Bruce Brown and KJ Simpson have largely replaced his minutes on the floor, but neither has been effective on offense, making just one of their combined nine shot attempts at the beginning of the fourth.

Most of the scoring load has been split between wings Tim Hardaway Jr. and Spencer Jones, who have combined for 16 points on decent shooting.

The star of the show remains Nikola Jokic, who has yet again carried the team’s offense with 28 points, nine rebounds, and five assists. However, his efficiency has dipped significantly without Murray on the floor as the Celtics’ defense keys in on him.

The game has been a defensive dogfight, and Boston’s offensive players haven’t made it easy either. Star forward and MVP contender Jaylen Brown has logged 23 points and nine rebounds, and Derrick White has backed him up with 18 points of his own.

Murray’s injury stings especially hard for the Nuggets, who have struggled with key players missing games this season. Even tonight, the team is missing key role player Aaron Gordon, who will be out for at least another week as he continues to rehab his hamstring injury.

Murray’s next chance to suit up is on Friday against the Oklahoma City Thunder.