Jamal Murray clears air on health issues following his restricted minutes against Australia

Denver Nuggets star point guard Jamal Murray gave an update on his health after playing limited minutes for Team Canada. For the past two Olympic contests, Murray was mostly sidelined. His absence was apparent in the NBA champion's July 28 opener vs. Greece. The star guard only had 17 minutes of action to begin the 2024 Paris Olympics.

In Canada's 93-83 win against Australia, Murray played 23 minutes but struggled from the floor. He only had five points and three rebounds as he shot 2-7 overall. He also didn't start the game although there were expectations from fans that he'd be part of the starting five.

Murray tore his ACL in late 2021. Moving forward, he’s taking a cautious approach to avoid further complications. After Canada's win vs. Australia, Vox Media's Ariel Helwani interviewed Murray and inquired about the status of his health.

"I'm feeling great," Murray said. "Obviously I was away from the team for a while, not starting. But we got a bunch of selfless guys that don't need all that. I think we got a great starting unit, Lu's doing his thing, Dillon's playing amazing and obviously Shai, Dwight, RJ.

"Everybody has their role [here]. You saw Jayson Tatum didn't play a single minute. Tyrese Haliburton didn't play. A lot of guys on other teams are starting for their respective NBA teams so it's not an ego thing. We're just trying to get the win... a bunch of best players from the same country, trying to get a win. Not worrying about stats, egos or roles."

Murray clarified that he feels great and coming off the bench doesn't bother him. The Nuggets guard is focused on helping his national team finish their Olympic tournament with a gold medal.

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Jamal Murray cited Canada's teamwork as the key to their winning momentum

Canada has won its first two Olympic games. During the win vs. Australia, Jamal Murray was asked why his national team had played so well.

The Nuggets star didn't single himself out. Instead, he credited the collective efforts of his team as the reason why they've been successful so far.

"I feel great, but I think it is more about the team. If I wasn't here, the team would keep going, right?" Murray said. "It's about the wins and putting performances on for your country and then putting everything else aside."

Cohesion and group familiarity give them an advantage over most opponents. Time will tell if that edge will extend beyond group play.