Murray Signs Lucrative 5-Year, $140M Extension with Kings: What It Means for the Team’s Future

Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray has signed a five-year, $140 million rookie contract extension with the team, solidifying his role as a key player until the 2030-31 season. This news was shared by his agents at Priority Sports to ESPN.

Murray was the fourth overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft. He made an immediate impact, becoming a full-time starter and helping the Kings break their playoff drought. He earned a spot on the All-Rookie team and has shown promise as a two-way player, even as his scoring has slightly leveled off. His defensive skills have become invaluable to the Kings, who often rely on offensive plays.

According to ESPN Research, Murray is among just three players in the last three seasons to achieve at least 500 three-pointers, 150 blocks, and 150 steals. His role as the team’s main perimeter defender is critical; last season alone, he faced 2025 All-Stars in over a thousand half-court matchups, ranking fifth in the league.

In the 2022-23 season, he averaged 12.4 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.4 assists, playing about 34 minutes in 76 games. Known for his durability, Murray has played 233 out of his first 246 games, starting nearly all of them. However, he will miss at least the first ten games of this upcoming season due to a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb, which required surgery.

Murray’s absence will be felt early in the season, as he’s not only a strong shooter but also a reliable defender for the Kings. They hope to compete for a playoff spot in the Western Conference while navigating this challenge.

Murray is now the sixth player to finalize a rookie extension as the league’s deadline approaches, further highlighting the trend of teams locking in their young talent early. This move indicates confidence in his potential to grow and contribute significantly in the years to come.

For a deeper look at contract trends within the NBA, check out the latest from ESPN.

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