An awkward silence in the Denver Nuggets squad speaks volumes of the palpable tension. Jamal Murray‘s contract has been under observation for the longest time. Despite leading his team to a debut title win in 2023, Murray’s retention has been a bitter pill to discuss. Because of the series of injuries last season, it has brought the 27-year-old on the threshold of an unwanted situation. Besides the addition of Russell Westbrook, no major names have made it to the Nuggets’ roster. Therefore, with the current team, they’ll have to fight to the tee to capitalize on the situation. But will this Murray dilemma end?

Looks like the Nuggets have resolved the issue to a large extent. The franchise has gotten Jamal Murray to sign a 4-year extension for $206 million. Part of the reason he has been awarded this deal is also because of the lack of quality options available on the market. This comes after the point guard completed four years on his recent contract, which was a 5-year $195 million deal. Had the Canadian been an NBA All-Star, he could’ve been eligible for a 5-year veteran contract worth $314 million. This means Jamal had to sacrifice an additional $106M by agreeing to the current deal!

Meanwhile, during a live session on the Gil’s Arena podcast, ex-Warrior star Nick Young spoke in favor of Jamal Murray. Around 40 minutes into the discussion, Young said, “Best player on the team. One of the best closers.” He added, “When he’s healthy.” Of course, injuries and health have been eyesores for the Nuggets’ leader. “Murray had a calf strain in the playoffs, went and played with Canada in the Olympics- struggled,” the 1x NBA champion reminded. Murray’s past seasons’ records aren’t brilliant however, the game changes overseas.

“Your game is Nuggets. So it was great pay because he is that guy that when you think about his career, you’re gonna be like ‘he made no All-Star games’. He is no All-NBA player. That’s crazy, right?” This question by Nick Young is indeed interesting and shocking at the same time.

Given his contribution to the game, Jamal Murray should’ve made it to the All-Star by now. “A guy that has so much and he does so much for the team. He doesn’t get the accolades and the awards. So, this is cheap for what they (Denver Nuggets) get.” Of course, to have someone as skilled as Jamal Murray, for $106M less, is a good deal for the team.

Moreover, the unfortunate leverage of injuries has marred Jamal Murray’s upcoming journey. The 27-year-old may not have many options available in the market as his record with injury has been a real problem for the Nuggets themselves. Logically speaking, why would any team punt a klutzy Jamal Murray?

Will the Nuggets’ extended investments in Jamal Murray truly pay off?

With a contract extension, the Denver Nuggets are telling their fans that the Canadian point guard is their best chance in the NBA. This means the championship dreams rely on the shoulders of Jamal Murray. Besides him, Nikola Jokic is also a crucial key. The Nuggets also want us to believe that despite a rocky past few months and a disastrous Olympics campaign, the Canadian remains the top name on the roster. Moreover, lack of accolades also wouldn’t budge the team’s decision. And with that, Jamal Murray would likely become the only player with no All-Stars or even an All-Star selection to make more than $50M on average.

With eight years of chemistry with the Denver Nuggets and three-time MVP, Murray’s value in the team is skyrocketing through the roofs. The timing of the agreement is noteworthy, especially given it involves 30% of the 2025-26 salary cap during the post-new broadcast deal boom, even if the total amount doesn’t stand out.

With a freshly signed contract, Jamal Murray’s chances of becoming a free agent next season turn to zero. However, concerns about his injuries persist. What if both parties fail to extract the best out of the extension? What if the trail of injuries continues to mar Jamal Murray’s career? This could lead to a performance drop in the team. Some questions are looking for some answers.

Jamal Murray desperately needs the NBA All-Star to solidify his position as a valuable player. The upcoming season could be that much-awaited turning point for the Canadian. We’ve just got to wait and watch now.

Feel that you can do with another update from the sport of basketball? Then do check out this recent interview with the up-and-coming Georgia Lady Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.