In a thrilling showdown, the LA Clippers edged out the Denver Nuggets, fueled by standout performances from Bennedict Mathurin and Kawhi Leonard. But the night had its dramatic twist, courtesy of Jamal Murray.
With the Nuggets trailing by three and only 0.9 seconds left on the clock, Murray, making his first NBA All-Star appearance, was fouled on a three-point attempt. Known for his clutch free-throw shooting, Murray had the chance to send the game into overtime.
Jamal Murray vs. the Wall… misses the last of 3 free throws for the tie and the Clippers hold on to win. pic.twitter.com/nFuWFgi1Gx
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) February 20, 2026
He nailed the first free throw, but the second bounced off the back rim. After a brief pause for substitutions, Murray stepped up for the third attempt. The shot veered right and rolled off the rim, sealing the victory for the Clippers.
When asked what was on his mind during those tense moments, Kawhi Leonard candidly shared, "I was just hoping he was gonna miss one, really. We were up three, he hit the first two, so just hoping for a miss."
Murray, an 88.7% free throw shooter this season, has faced some struggles in clutch moments, missing 11 free throws in close games this year. His record stands at 11-of-18 from the line in the final minute of games decided by three points or fewer.
Leonard, despite battling what seemed like a cold, contributed 23 points, four rebounds, and three assists. It was Bennedict Mathurin, however, who stole the spotlight.
Kawhi Leonard on what was going through his head during Jamal Murray’s game-tying free throws:
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) February 20, 2026
“I was just hoping he was gonna miss one, really, shit. I mean, we were up three, he knocked down the first two, so really just hoping he would miss.” https://t.co/BYVzOwVuLO pic.twitter.com/0oG8ybH6oS
In just his third game with the Clippers, Mathurin dazzled with 38 points, shooting 12-of-22 from the field and an impressive 12-of-13 from the line. This performance not only marked the highest score by a Clipper in their home debut but also matched Mathurin's career-high.
The Clippers' victory was a testament to their resilience and depth, with Mathurin's breakout performance providing a glimpse of his potential impact on the team's future.