One of the most important moves of the Nuggets during the offseason is re-signing Jamal Murray. The Athletic’s Shams Charania revealed in June that the point guard was “working toward” a max contract. But the Olympics then passed, and there was no update from the front office or the rumor mill. Jamal Murray also ignored the questions on July 11 as he was preparing to play for Canada in the Olympics. However, word was out that the deal might turn official after the once-in-four-year tournament, and it did come to life!

As per an AP insider, Jamal Murray has signed a four-year, $208 million maximum contract extension with the Nuggets. Actually, Murray could’ve gotten even more cash. However, an aspect apart from his fitness has prevented him from getting a more lucrative deal.

Jamal Murray could’ve signed a Jayson Tatum-like $300 million+ deal

Jamal Murray has been a great player when it comes to stats and intangibles. He averaged 21.2 points, 4 rebounds, and 6.5 assists last season, even though he’s missed quite a few of the games. He’s also been an impact player. So, if he had waited a little longer until he got an All-Star invitation from the league, the signing amount might’ve been very different.

As per Spotrac, Murray would have been eligible for a five-year, $314.8 million veteran extension if he had made it to an All-Star team. However, the 27-year-old is rather injury-prone, which makes him vulnerable. Plus, he didn’t play enough last season to even be eligible. Waiting on things could’ve ruined his existing offer from the Nuggets. That’s why he just signed the contract worth $208 million, considering the knee issues he’s been facing.

So, after cashing out $36 million last season, the point guard will benefit from his new extension, estimating around $46.3 million for the 2025-26 season. Years after his 50-point heroics in the 2020 bubble, Murray has missed key games for the Nuggets and his injury woes will only get worse from here. So, after losing KCP and Bruce Brown, is this extension a boon or a bane for the Denver side?

The contract extension may be a double-edged sword for the Nuggets

Despite the 27-year-old’s injury problems with the Jokic-led squad, he bounced back from his torn ACL during the 2021-22 season. He also made a comeback in 2023 to ultimately lead his team to the title. However, the inconsistency shrouded his regular and playoff performance last season, as he only played 59 games out of a total of 82. No doubt he sank game-winning shots against the Lakers in the first round. However, he then missed game-time against the Wolves in the second round, and his team ultimately lost the series.

The injury worries continued in the Paris Olympics too. His sharp shooting accuracy beyond the arc was just 15%, while his field goal percentage was only 29%. Ultimately, he could only average 6 points per game for Canada despite being their ace player. Eventually, his national team crashed out of the quarter-finals in Paris. Such an impact post-season impacted his eligibility for a max extension.

Nevertheless, it is a risk that the Nuggets will have to take as Jamal Murray forms one of the best NBA duos with Nikola Jokic. He has spent all his career in Denver and recorded career-high stats last season. So, apart from durability issues, he is a key asset. However, this decision might bite back if he gets sidelined for long periods due to injury. Therefore, the 27-year-old must ensure he remains fit to capitalize on his team’s investment.

Before you go, remember to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Silas Demary Jr.