As September approaches, Denver Nuggets star guard Jamal Murray remains without a contract extension. With the Nuggets’ roster seemingly set—comprising 15 players on standard guaranteed contracts, three on two-way deals, and three more on Exhibit 10 agreements—the focus has shifted to whether the team can secure an extension for their star player. Nuggets president Josh Kroenke recently conveyed to the Denver Post’s Nuggets beat writer, Bennett Durando, that he believes the roster is ready for the regular season.
The lingering question of whether Jamal Murray and the Nuggets will reach an agreement on an extension has been one of the most significant storylines of the offseason. In late June, Shams Charania reported that both sides were working towards a four-year, maximum-salary extension that would kick in during the 2025-2026 season, valued at $208.5 million, based on the NBA’s latest cap projections. However, as training camp looms, no deal has been finalized.
The Jamal Murray Contract Extension Saga
During the Paris Olympics, reports suggested that discussions on Murray’s contract were delayed due to his commitment to Team Canada for the 2024 Olympics. Now that the Olympics have concluded, questions remain about whether the Nuggets and Murray’s camp will proceed with the maximum salary extension. With Murray back in Denver and seen practicing at team facilities, fans are eagerly awaiting an update.
Murray Seeks a Fully Guaranteed Deal
A four-year extension would be a significant investment for the Nuggets, but it comes with some risk due to Murray’s history of injuries. Additionally, Murray’s performances in the NBA playoffs and during the Paris Olympics were not his best, possibly raising concerns within the organization. Without a formal agreement in place, the team may be exploring options to protect itself with injury clauses or partially guaranteed years.
Murray, who has yet to make an All-Star team, is seeking a fully guaranteed contract worth an average of $52 million annually. This would place considerable financial strain on the Nuggets, who have already felt the impact of their high payroll, losing key players like Bruce Brown and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in consecutive years.
Reports from July indicated that Murray and his agent, Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports Management, are holding firm on their demand for a fully guaranteed contract and are willing to wait for the right terms. This stance appears to be a major reason why the extension talks have dragged on.
Calvin Booth’s Comments
Denver Nuggets General Manager Calvin Booth previously spoke to SiriusXM NBA Radio about Murray’s contract extension, stating, “The Olympics are a big deal. I think having him focus on that and getting through that, and when he gets back, and that concludes, I think it’ll be pretty easy. I don’t think it’ll be much of a negotiation.”
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Despite Booth’s optimism, the lack of a finalized deal raises concerns. Murray’s less-than-stellar performances in the playoffs and Olympics, coupled with the Nuggets’ complex financial situation, may be contributing factors. Nonetheless, Murray has been a crucial part of the Nuggets’ success, including their 2023 NBA championship victory. As Nikola Jokic’s primary co-star, securing Murray’s future should be a top priority for Denver’s front office. With the loss of key players in recent offseasons, the Nuggets cannot afford to risk losing Jokic’s main collaborator.
The Bottom Line
Nuggets fans have reason to hope that General Manager Calvin Booth will finalize a contract extension with Murray’s representatives before the season begins. Given Murray’s vital role in the team’s success and his desire to secure a lucrative deal, an agreement would be mutually beneficial. However, if Murray enters the season without an extension, it could lead to significant concerns. The outcome of these negotiations will be something to watch closely as the new season approaches.
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