Keegan Murray, the rookie forward star of the Sacramento Kings, recently locked down a five-year, $140 million extension. The 25-year-old has made a significant impact in the NBA since being selected as the No. 4 pick in the 2022 draft. His performance through his last three seasons earned him a reputation as one of the centerpieces for the Kings. Now, he’s fighting an uphill battle heading into the 2023 campaign.
Perhaps the most impressive feat is Murray’s availability — or rather, his consistent presence on the court. He played in 233 out of a possible 246 games during his first three seasons. Incredibly, he played the full 90 minutes in all but two of those matches. Last season, he played 76 games and averaged 12.4 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game. His 34.3 minutes average shows how influential he is to the result, and it really isn’t even close as to who means more.
Aside from his scoring and rebounding ability, Murray has impressed his shooting prowess. He is noted to be one of only seven players in NBA’s history. He exploded for at least 150 made threes in each of his first three years! Furthermore, he is among just three players alongside Anthony Edwards and Derrick White to record at least 500 three-pointers, 150 blocks, and 150 steals in the past three seasons.
Even with these successes, Murray is dealt an unfortunate hand as he opens the new season. He’s set to miss a minimum of the first ten contests. This is because of a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb. Surgery was needed for the injury and he’ll be out for several months while working to rehabilitate enough to return to the professional courts.
The Kings have always shown confidence in Murray’s long-term potential, most notably by re-upping his contract at the start of his second season. This extension locks Murray in with the team for years to come. Further, it reflects their faith in the talent and durability that has already been on display for several years from a player who debuted at the altar of 30.
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