Three-time NBA Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic has celebrated numerous achievements during his remarkable ten-year tenure with the Denver Nuggets. However, one milestone had eluded him until now: playing alongside a current NBA All-Star teammate. Despite having shared the court with former All-Stars such as Paul Milsap, DeMarcus Cousins, and DeAndre Jordan, Jokic had never experienced the camaraderie of a fellow All-Star during a season—until his 11th season, where he now joins long-time teammate Jamal Murray.
Murray, who became a member of the Nuggets just one season after Jokic, is now in his 10th season, though he missed the entirety of the 2021-22 season due to a torn ACL. Known for shining in the playoffs and earning the nickname “Playoff Jamal,” he has played a pivotal role in the Nuggets’ historic progress—leading them to the Western Conference Finals in the 2020 playoffs and ultimately to the franchise’s first NBA championship in 2023. In earlier seasons, injury woes often hindered his performance from reaching All-Star caliber, but this season has been different.
Jamal Murray’s performance has been stellar, especially considering Jokic’s recent 16-game absence. During this time, Murray averaged a remarkable 26 points per game, shooting nearly 50% from the field while encountering consistent double teams. His contributions were instrumental as the Nuggets managed a commendable 10-6 record despite being without four regular starters, further solidifying Murray’s case for being Denver’s MVP this season.
As the All-Star festivities approach, both Jokic and Murray will represent the Nuggets on the eight-man International team, set to compete against two teams composed of American players. This matchup is slated for February 15th in Los Angeles, provided Jokic is cleared to participate following a recent left knee bone bruise.
The International team is poised to be a formidable contender, featuring an exceptional lineup including the likes of San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama, Portland’s Deni Avdija, Pascal Siakam from the Indianapolis Pacers, the Lakers’ Luka Doncic, and reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder. While Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo may be sidelined due to injury, a potential replacement could be Houston’s Alperen Şengün.
The International squad boasts an impressive roster, featuring six of the last seven MVP winners, including Jokic (three times), Giannis (twice), and SGA, with the seventh MVP going to Joel Embiid, who, notably, did not earn an All-Star spot this season. With additional talents like Wembanyama and Doncic poised for future MVP honors, the International team is shaping up to be a powerhouse, highlighting a promising season ahead for both Jokic and Murray.