Denver Nuggets star makes his priorities clear ahead of extension eligibility

Denver Nuggets star Jamal Murray is set to become a free agent after the 2024-25 season — maybe. The Nuggets are able to prevent the risk of Murray testing the waters in free agency by signing him to a supermax contract extension next summer. But, in order for that to happen, he’ll have to make his first-ever All-NBA team this year.

Another thing that Murray has never done is be named to an All-Star team, which is something he was asked about at Monday’s media day.

“I’d rather be a champion,” Murray told reporters (h/t Harrison Wind). “A lot of guys are All-Stars and not champions.”

Despite never receiving an All-NBA nod, Murray is still eligible for a three-year, $144 million contract extension this fall. Most times, players of his caliber elect to wait for the supermax extension (the one he’ll be eligible for next summer), because it’s longer and worth double the money.

Will Jamal Murray earn a supermax extension with the Denver Nuggets?

If he plays like he did during the playoffs he will, for sure.

Murray was a monster for the Nuggets as they battled their way to their first-ever NBA title last spring. He averaged 26.1 points, 7.1 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game while shooting 47.3% from the field and 39.6% from long range.

His inspired play caught the attention of many fans and media members across the league. It wouldn’t be surprising at all if he received a lot of extra love when it comes to All-Star voting this winter.

The same can be said for All-NBA voting, which will happen towards then end of the season, and will ultimately decide his financial fate. If he doesn’t earn the nod, then Denver can’t offer him the supermax. If he does then they’ll likely lock him up for the long term.