After a turbulent time with the Lakers and Clippers, Russell Westbrook has joined the Denver Nuggets. The 9x NBA All-Star has faced tremendous ridicule and criticism in recent times. Therefore, Westbrook is trying to clear his name from the naysayer’s rosters. And maybe, the Nuggets could become the perfect place for this. Meanwhile, partnering with Jamal Murray, he looks to form a lethal offensive duo. Together, they could lead Denver to another championship.

Jamal Murray is looking to bounce back after agreeing to a 4-year, $208M contract extension with the Nuggets. A series of injuries had marred the PG’s position in the team and there was a time when his future with the Nuggets seemed like a distant dream. However, with an extended period in hand, Murray could show why he’s the team’s best chance in the NBA championship. But, to turn the manifestations into reality, the Canadian star would require Russell Westbrook’s skills.

Therefore, during Denver’s media day, Westbrook proudly claimed that he was there to back Jamal. “My job is to be able to push Jamal to be the best he can be. And play at the highest level he can.” Westbrook went on to compliment the 27YO Nuggets’ wingman stating, “He’s an unbelievable player and he still has so much room to get better in a lot of areas and I’m grateful to be able to be here, to be able to help him along the journey and vice versa.” Moreover, Russell Westbrook is open to understanding and learning the game from the other players of the team. This trait would only elevate the former MVP’s contribution toward Jamal Murray & Co.

Following a disappointing 2023-24 NBA season and an even heartbreaking Paris Olympics 2024 campaign, Jamal Murray is seeking a comeback. He was the main character in the Denver Nuggets 2023 championship win. However, zero All-Star appearances and a history of injuries have bound Murray to stay with the Nuggets as most teams wouldn’t prefer a klutzy hooper. So, will the upcoming season be promising for the one-time NBA champion?

2024-25 could be the turning point in Jamal Murray’s career

When Jamal Murray returned from his 18 months of ACL injury recovery in 2022, he was a whole new person for the world. In his first game, he scored 12 points in the 26 minutes on the court. The same season, the Nuggets clinched their maiden championship where Murray set new records alongside teammate Nikola Jokic. Both the hoopers became the only duo in the NBA’s history to record 30-point triple-doubles in the same game. But shockingly, the 27-year-old Jamal Murray’s contributions never added up to take him to the All-Star ranks.

With a career stat of 17.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, Murray is surely one of those names who by now should’ve etched his name among the best. But as we’ve said before, it’s the injuries and his prolonged unavailability from the court that have mostly barred him from acquiring the legendary feat. Besides, his Olympic semifinal performance against France had brought him under great scrutiny. Jamal Murray had a disappointing 4 out of 22 shots, averaging only six points on 29% shooting and a meager 14.3% from three-point range.

Jamal Murray has a few things to prove in the 2024-25 NBA season. This could be the defining moment of his career. He might finally earn his long-awaited All-Star badge after eight strong years. Murray has shown he can dominate on his own. With or without Russell Westbrook’s help, he’s ready to rise to the challenge.