Where things stand with Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr. as end of regular season looms

Nuggets Ink

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Mike Singer and deputy sports editor Matt Schubert reconvene with just two games left in the regular season. Among the topics discussed: + The Nuggets missed out on an opportunity to clinch a top-six seed in the Western Conference playoffs with a disappointing home loss to the Spurs on Tuesday night. What are the implications of the double-digit loss? + With just two games left in the regular season, the likelihood of Jamal Murray returning ahead of the postseason appears to be dim. Would the Nuggets consider bringing their star guard back in the playoffs without any regular-season game reps? Would it be wise for them to do so given the intense, physical nature of postseason play? + Along those same lines, it's been weeks since there's been positive news regarding the potential return of Michael Porter Jr. What are the chances we see MPJ back on the court this season? Should the team be even more cautious with the young star they recently signed to a long-term extension? + The Nuggets are approaching decision time with wing Davon Reed, whose two-way contract must be converted in order for him to be available for the postseason. Given his defensive acumen, should the team consider dropping a player in order to make room for him on the playoff roster? + The recent release of ESPN's MVP straw poll has made Nikola Jokic a prohibitive betting favorite to win his second consecutive MVP award. Does the Joker have the award wrapped up?