Jamal Murray on the Verge of All-Star Recognition as Nikola Jokic Aims for Duo Debut
Could this be the year that the Denver Nuggets finally see two of their players honored as All-Stars? For Nikola Jokic, a three-time MVP and a certain Hall of Famer, the absence of a fellow All-Star during his tenure has been a notable gap in his otherwise illustrious career. Despite having had some notable teammates, such as a once-great Russell Westbrook, who by 2024-25 was reduced to a minimum-salaried reserve, Jokic has often carried the weight alone.
Nuggets’ Offseason Moves Spark Optimism
With the Nuggets making significant strides in bolstering their roster this summer, hopes are high that they could reclaim their spot at the pinnacle of the Western Conference. A stronger season record, along with a touch of luck regarding injuries to key players, could pave the way for Jokic to finally share the All-Star spotlight with a teammate. As Steve Aschburner of NBA.com suggests, Jamal Murray appears to be a prime candidate to make that leap this season.
Jamal Murray: The Almost-All-Star
Murray, the 6-foot-4 guard from Kentucky, has been on the verge of All-Star status for several seasons. He has consistently showcased his scoring prowess, averaging over 20 points per game for the last four years. Last season, in a healthy 67-game stretch for the 50-32 Nuggets, Murray recorded an impressive 21.4 points per game, along with 6.0 assists, 3.9 rebounds, 1.4 steals, and 0.5 blocks. His shooting splits of .474 from the field, .393 from beyond the arc, and .886 from the free-throw line are indicative of his offensive capabilities.
A Competitive Landscape for All-Star Recognition
However, Murray’s path to his first All-Star nod won’t be without challenges. Despite his scoring consistency, he finds himself in a competitive group of players vying for recognition. Notably, CJ McCollum, currently with the Washington Wizards, has logged ten seasons of 20-plus points without earning an All-Star selection, highlighting the unpredictable nature of All-Star selections.
As Aschburner points out, the 34-year-old McCollum may have missed his window for an All-Star appearance, while Murray’s playoff success and championship experience could play a pivotal role in his candidacy. “Murray is a renowned playoff riser, owns a championship ring, and has a teammate, Jokic, who has been Denver’s solo All-Star all seven times he’s gone,” Aschburner notes. If the Nuggets’ offseason adjustments translate into success, Murray could finally break through and join Jokic in the All-Star ranks.
Strategic Offseason Transactions
This summer, the Nuggets made strategic moves that could impact their success and Murray’s All-Star aspirations. The team traded starting small forward Michael Porter Jr. for the more versatile Cam Johnson, acquired backup center Jonas Valanciunas, and added veteran guards Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown to the mix. These changes not only strengthen the roster but also provide Murray with the support he needs to elevate his game.
As the upcoming season unfolds, all eyes will be on the Nuggets and their dynamic duo. With Jokic’s legacy on the line and Murray poised for a breakthrough, the anticipation for what lies ahead is palpable.
