It feels like Jamal Murray made a deal with the devil to go 22-23 and win the league. Since then he has been a shadow of his former self. And the league knows it too. “I need Jamal Murray” That’s what coach Michael Malone said after the Nuggets lost to the Knicks about a week ago. He was the backbone of the Nuggets along with Nikola Jokic. He needs Murray back.

Well, things don’t seem to be the same anymore. He was only able to score 12 points in today’s win against the Warriors. Made just 33.3% of his field goals.

Coach Malone once again offered some advice on how he would approach the situation in Murray’s position. “I mean, take it personally. I would say that. Take it personally, they are calling you for a reason and prove to them that you are not that guy.” he said. Murray now has a target in his sights because everyone knows the problems he has had. The league knows his status and he is tested every time he steps on the court.

He further explained: “You know Jamal just has to stick 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 big block on Kuminga towards the end of the game.” It looks like Murray has to manage to get back to what he once was. The league knows he’s the target and they’re doing a good job. He needs to come back and put in solid performances to keep everyone quiet.

Because if he doesn’t, the Mile-High City might no longer know where he’ll play.

Nuggets might not hesitate to trade Jamal Murray for more firepower

The Denver Nuggets are in a strange position right now. They’re not in bad shape, but they don’t look anywhere near a championship team. Maybe it’s time to shake things up.

Nikola Jokic? He’s still doing funny things, which is still evident today since he set the pace for what could be his fourth MVP in the 4th quarter. The problem? The players around him can’t do it. Murray, once a key to their success, is no longer the same. He doesn’t shoot and he just doesn’t have the 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 get ahead. Enter the Sacramento Kings. They’re struggling at 10-12 and could be the perfect trading partner to make something happen.

Imagine a straight trade: Jamal Murray for De’Aaron Fox. It works financially and could help both teams. Denver would get Fox, who is fast, explosive and has just the energy boost this roster needs. On the other hand, Sacramento could actually save money in the long run by taking on Murray’s contract, which runs through 2029, rather than having to pay Fox the maximum after next season.

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