Jamal Murray, the Denver Nuggets’ dynamic point guard, has signed a four-year, $208 million maximum contract extension, as reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Despite his lack of All-Star appearances, a history of nagging injuries, and a disappointing Olympic performance, the Nuggets' decision to extend Murray's contract is a vital step toward securing the team’s future and maintaining their championship-winning core.
The extension, which keeps Murray tied to Denver for the next five seasons, reflects his essential role in the team’s success alongside Nikola Jokić. Murray is a franchise cornerstone, evidenced by his remarkable return from a torn ACL in 2021-2022 to help lead the Nuggets to their first-ever NBA championship the following season.
Murray's contract breakdown sees him earning $36 million this coming season, with his salary increasing to $46.4 million in 2025-26, $50.1 million in 2026-27, $53.8 million in 2027-28, and $57.5 million in the final year of the deal. While his performance was inconsistent in the recent playoffs, and his Olympics run left much to be desired, Murray's value to the team lies in his ability to show up in the biggest moments—especially during Denver's title run.
One of just eight players in NBA history to record multiple 50-point playoff games, Murray is also the Nuggets' all-time leader in made three-pointers. He set career highs in points (21.2) and assists (6.5) last season and was one of only three players in the league to average 20 points, 6.0 assists, and shoot over 40% from three-point range. Despite missing games due to injury, his chemistry with head coach Michael Malone and Jokić remains a key to Denver's success.
The Nuggets have established a foundation of continuity, with Murray, Jokić, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon all under contract for several more seasons. General manager Calvin Booth made it clear that the team’s championship window remains wide open, provided Murray can stay healthy and perform at his best when it counts.
Players under contract next season include: Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., Aaron Gordon, Zeke Nnaji, Dario Saric, Russell Westbrook, Christian Braun, DaRon Holmes II, Julian Strawther, Peyton Watson, DeAndre Jordan, Vlatko Cancar, Jalen Pickett and Hunter Tyson. That team should contend once again.
With the fifth-best odds (+850, BetMGM) to win the 2024 NBA Championship and +400 to win the Western Conference, Denver’s hopes for continued success hinge on Murray’s presence. His ability to bounce back from injuries and maintain his high level of efficient play will be crucial as the team looks to return to the Finals.
In the modern NBA, securing long-term deals for cornerstone players is essential, especially in small markets, and despite his challenges, Jamal Murray has proven to be worth the investment. His contract extension not only solidifies the Nuggets’ title aspirations but ensures the franchise’s continuity for years to come.