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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

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  Debate

Debate

Jamal Murray's $106M sacrifice—Is loyalty worth more than money in today's NBA?

The Denver Nuggets had a pretty quiet summer this year. They didn’t have any major additions besides Russell Westbrook. Not only that, but they also lost their primary shooting guard, KCP. With their current roster, the Nuggets will look to capitalize on assets like MPJ and Aaron Gordon. However, the franchise made a huge long-term decision after signing their star point guard, Jamal Murray, to a four-year extension. This comes after Murray completed four years on his recent contract which was a 5-year $195 million deal.

However, his current contract is even huge. Murray signed a four-year $208 million maximum extension, putting him through 2029. Not only that but the guard is set to make $244 million in the next five years. While the star guard deserved a $200+ maximum extension, he could’ve been eligible for a much higher payroll. But how is that? Well, the same could have been possible if Murray would go on to make the All-NBA team.

 

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Moreover, Murray would then be eligible for a five-year veteran contract of $314 million. But then again, the 27-year-old has never made the All-Star team in his career. An All-NBA leap would’ve been much harder for the guard to go for. Regardless, Jamal Murray does stand as one of the elite guards in the league. Murray averaged 21.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game last season. On the bright side, Murray finally got out of the talks around his exit, as the franchise was hesitant to offer him an extension at first. This had a lot to do with his performance in the second round of the postseason, the Olympics, and his recent struggles. But the Canadian helped seal two first-round games with unbelievable game-winners over the Lakers which tells that the guard can deliver during big moments.

However, the Nuggets fell to the Timberwolves in the second round. But it wasn’t a disastrous season for the Nuggets. Coming off a championship they did quite well for themselves. Though they were the favorites to win the title, the Wolves’ sudden rise in the postseason was enough to get past the MVP’s squad. On the other hand, Jamal Murray left it all on the floor in the first round. But he wasn’t as consistent in the next series. Now, the upcoming season will be as crucial for the Nuggets.

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Jamal Murray will look to get right to work

What’s your perspective on:

Jamal Murray's $106M sacrifice—Is loyalty worth more than money in today's NBA?

Have an interesting take?

The Nuggets will be looking out for teams like the Thunder, the Wolves, and the Mavs. Now, the West has been growing competitive each year. And there’s a lot to look out for this season. The Wolves looking to make a statement, and the Kings coming in strong with their new addition, DeMar DeRozan. Also, the Mavs recently added Klay Thompson to the roster. In short, it’s going to be a tough season for the Nuggets. But they have the talent and the experience to make yet another championship run.

Nikola Jokic, the reigning MVP, MPJ, Aaron Gordon, and Murray will have a hard time settling for a top-three seed. However, it will be interesting to see how the squad looks to play things out this year. The Nuggets will be facing the Thunder on 25th October to start things off. What are your thoughts on Jamal Murray’s maximum extension? Do you think the Canadian will make the All-NBA team anytime soon? Let us know in the comments.

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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.