It feels like Jamal Murray made a deal with the devil to win the league in 22-23. Since then, he has only been a shadow of his former self. And the league knows it as well. “I need Jamal Murray,” Coach Michael Malone had said after the Nuggets had lost to the Knicks about a week ago. He had been the backbone of the Nuggets along with Nikola Jokic. He needs Murray back.

Well, things don’t seem the same anymore. He could only score 12 points in today’s victory against the Warriors. Making only 33.3% of his field goals.

Coach Malone again has shared some wisdom on how he’d tackle the situation if he was Murray. “I mean, take it personal. That’s what I would say. Take it personal, they’re calling you up for a reason, and prove to them that you’re not that guy,” he said. Murray now has a target on his back, as everyone knows the struggles he has been having. The league knows his status and he remains tested every time he steps on the court.

He further explained, “You know Jamal’s just got to stay with it. You know, I mean he didn’t shoot the ball well tonight. 8 assists, only 1 turnover, and like I said, he had a huge block on Kuminga late in the game.”. Looks like Murray will have to find it in him to return to what he once was. The league knows he’s the one to target and they’re doing a good job. He has to get back and dish out solid performances to shut everyone up.

Because if he doesn’t, then the Mile-High City might not know where he’ll be playing ball anymore.

Nuggets might not hesitate to trade Jamal Murray for more firepower

The Denver Nuggets are in a weird spot right now. They’re not in bad form, but they’re far from looking like a championship team. Maybe it’s time to shake things up.

Nikola Jokic? He’s still doing Jokic things as evident today, from his 4th quarter clutch—on pace for what could be his fourth MVP. The problem? The players around him aren’t cutting it. Murray, once a key to their success, hasn’t been the same. His shooting’s off, and he just doesn’t have that same spark.

Here’s a wild idea: What if Denver traded Murray? It sounds crazy, right? He’s already helped them win a ring, but sometimes you have to take risks to move forward. Enter the Sacramento Kings. They’re struggling at 10-12, and they might be the perfect trade partner to make something happen.

Imagine a straight-up swap: Jamal Murray for De’Aaron Fox. It works financially and could help both teams. Denver would get Fox, who’s fast, explosive, and exactly the kind of energy boost this roster needs. On the other side, Sacramento could actually save money long-term by taking on Murray’s contract, which runs through 2029, instead of having to hand max out Fox after next season.

This kind of trade could make the Nuggets scary again. If they’re hesitant about being tied to Murray for five more years, now might be the time to roll the dice. Sometimes, you just have to bet big to win big.