WATCH: Jamal Murray could face $100,000 fine and suspension after throwing heat pack on court and mocking officials

The Minnesota Timberwolves and their swarming defense has frustrated the Denver Nuggets in both games.

WATCH: Jamal Murray could face $100,000 fine and suspension after throwing heat pack on court and mocking officials

Jamal Murray gestures money sign to referees and throws a heat pack onto the court during Game 2 of playoffs

For Jamal Murray, the only goal he had this season was to repeat as an NBA champion. However, things did not go to plan in Game 1 at their home.

In today’s Game 2 of the playoffs, the Minnesota Timberwolves thumped Murray and the Denver Nuggets throughout the game. Frustrations led Murray to mock officials, which could lead to a $100,000 fine. A suspension could also be issued after he used another dangerous antic.

In the early part of the second half, basketball fans and those watching in the arena knew how the game was going. So did Jamal Murray, as he was constantly denied by the hustling defense of the Minnesota Timberwolves. As a result of that pressure, Murray could not get anything going and at one point flashed the money sign at the referees. A gesture that instantly warrants a $100,000 fine as his opponent Rudy Gobert found out a couple of months back.

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Then later on with about three minutes to go, Murray was on the sidelines watching as the Timberwolves were pounding the paint. He knew his team were hapless against the length and athleticism of their opponents. Hence, out of frustration, he threw a heat pack on to the court. That itself could cause the NBA to issue a suspension.

Thankfully, the referees noticed the heat pack and stopped play. Even the commentators suggested that it could have ended dangerously for any player. Had it been the opponents, it would have led to serious issues for Murray. But had it hurt one of his own teammates, the Denver Nuggets as basketball followers know it could end the way the Utah Jazz did with players upset with each other.

Jamal Murray and the Denver Nuggets need to find a solution

After defeating the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1st round, the basketball world saw the Denver Nuggets as unstoppable. They showed all the traits needed to repeat as NBA champions. The only problem that showed up was that one loss, where their deteriorated bench showed their ugly side.

However, no one could envision that the defending champions would struggle against the same team they defeated convincingly last year in the 1st round. The differences are mainly in two areas.

First is that the Minnesota Timberwolves collectively have found their offensive rhythm involving multiple players, something that was still a work in progress last year. Secondly, it is their use of players with grit and size who stifled Jamal Murray and his teammates in both games so far.

Unless they figure out a solution to combat these problems, the Denver Nuggets could end their season early. However, if the NBA issues Jamal Murray a suspension, they can start packing their bags.

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