After Injury-Stricken Season, 26YO NBA Star’s Absence From FIBA World Cup Stuns NBA Analysts

Published 08/17/2023, 11:08 AM EDT

The anticipation for the FIBA World Cup is reaching its peak among fans worldwide. However, there’s one absence in the Canadian team that is being analyzed by NBA insiders. This decision comes from a 26YO Canadian star who had an injury-plagued season.

With the potential for a lucrative contract extension on the horizon, an NBA insider is guessing whether financial considerations played a role in this unexpected announcement.

A Canadian NBA star’s injury-stricken season due to an injury

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Jamal Murray’s decision to be absent from FIBA can be traced back to the injury he suffered during the 2021-22 season. On April 12, 2021, Murray tore his anterior ligament in a game against the Golden State Warriors. His badly twisted ankle forced him to sit out the entire season. It was a devastating blow to Murray and the Denver Nuggets, as he was a key player in the lineup.

After a grueling rehabilitation process, he got back on the court. In his next season, he helped lead the team to become the NBA champions. But despite his successful comeback, he has decided to forgo playing for Canada in the World Cup due to this bad injury.

In an interview with ESPN, NBA front insider Bobby Marks discusses with Tim McMahon and Chiney Ogwumike, along with Kendrick Perkins, if Murray’s contract extension might have been the reason for him to not play in FIBA.

Bobby Marks weighs in on Murray’s options

Marks suggests that considering Murray missed an entire season due to injury and since he currently has two years remaining on his contract with the Nuggets, making any hasty decisions could jeopardize future earning potential.

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As Murray becomes eligible for a contract extension until October 23rd, the possibility of earning up to $300 million or more is missed.

He summarizes his argument by saying, “I don’t think you can risk going out and I certainly expect him to go to training camp to play for Canada, but I think what’s out there in the future is his future earnings and it’s certainly a priority.”

With such a significant financial opportunity on the horizon, Murray has chosen to prioritize his future earnings and focus on his NBA career. His absence from the FIBA World Cup is undoubtedly a blow to the team. However, his pragmatism has stunned the analysts.

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The Canadian team too still boasts a talented roster, including players such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, RJ Barrett, Dillon Brooks and Zach Edey. These players will be tasked with representing Canada and aiming for a top-two finish amongst teams from the Americas to secure direct qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

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Written by:

Chetan is an NBA content writer at Essentially Sports. Being an active basketball player since his school days, he has always been a dedicated follower of the NBA. His passion for the game has drove him to pursue a career in sports journalism.

Edited by:

Aayush Kapoor

After Injury-Stricken Season, 26YO NBA Star’s Absence From FIBA World Cup Stuns NBA Analysts

A Canadian NBA star’s injury-stricken season due to an injury

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Bobby Marks weighs in on Murray’s options