The next NBA season is upon us, but there is still a big question mark around Jamal Murray’s extension status. Well, he was initially expecting a four-year $208 million max offer from the Nuggets. However, the conversations have surprisingly (for some) stalled since then and both parties are yet to reach an agreement. And as the dilemma begins taking its toll, veteran Insider Zach Lowe has put the entire league on the lookout for the Canadian in the trade market. Does a franchise in need like the Lakers actually have a shot here?

While Murray did not make Lowe’s ‘Most Intriguing Players’ list, he did bestow the guard with a unique title, “He does loom as the biggest wildcard in the whole league right now. Denver hasn’t signed him to an extension.” But The Lowe Post host believes that it could happen at any moment as the Nuggets likely “do not want to go into the season without” securing their star player.

However, in case things don’t work out, it could open up an opportunity for teams who are looking for an elite point guard. Maybe a team like the Lakers could benefit from this scenario as D’Angelo Russell has been in the trade rumors all summer long and Jamal Murray would be an instant upgrade to replace D’Lo because of his proven playoff success. But that would require Rob Pelinka to give up a lot of other assets to make room for Jamal’s desired contract.

Meanwhile, Denver has likely been so hesitant in extending Jamal Murray’s stay because of his constant injury concerns and recent Olympics performance. Be it his knee, calf, or elbow, it seems like he is always banged up, limiting his availability and productivity. Moreover, he struggled miserably in Paris as he could average only 6 points in 4 games, making many question his effectiveness without Nikola Jokic. Regardless, the Nuggets might have no option but to keep Murray in Denver. Here’s why.

Jamal Murray likely to stay in “second home” due to Nuggets’ major concern

Sure, there are injury concerns with Jamal Murray. But when he is available and healthy, there are not many guards in the league who are as effective as him. Especially during the playoffs! This past season, he proved his worth during the series against the Lakers as he hit two epic game-winners to get Denver through the first round. And he did it while dealing with multiple injuries. Knowing what Murray is capable of, Zach Lowe pointed out on The Lowe Post that the Nuggets do not have a better replacement for him if he decides to leave. And they might not want to risk it knowing how great the Murray-Jokic pairing has worked in the past.

Moreover, Murray seems to be in love with the city and even calls it his “second home” after Canada. “It feels like home. They’ve treated me as family. It’s been reciprocated and vice versa.” Ever since he got drafted 8 years ago, the Nuggets have been a part of his life and the city has accepted him with open arms. And he has nothing but gratitude for that, “I think not a lot of people and teams in the league have this kind of chemistry where they’re winning at a high level, they genuinely enjoy each other and spend time with each other off the court… I’m blessed to be in Denver and have them love me as one.”

So, it is highly likely that the Nuggets either offer him an extension before the season starts or wait it out for another year and hope for a better deal. In both cases, Jamal Murray would remain a part of the roster for the long term. What are your thoughts?

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