DENVER — Nikola Jokić built a historic résumé without the partner usually found beside an MVP. He stands alone as the only MVP in league history who played his first ten seasons without a single teammate earning All-Star, All-NBA or All-Defense honors. That streak has become an odd blemish on an otherwise sterling career. Now the narrative may finally shift. Jamal Murray’s All-Star push grows stronger by the week, and Denver feels the momentum.
Jamal Murray Set To End Ugly Nikola Jokić All-Star Streak
Murray steps into long-awaited recognition
May 18, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) gestures to his team during a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half during game seven of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Jamal Murray has long been labeled the league’s most talented player without an All-Star appearance. He flashes elite production often, yet never matched the consistency voters demand. This season has changed that perception. He averages 24.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, 6.6 assists and 1.1 steals while shooting 50.3 percent from the field and an astonishing 45.2 percent from deep. His efficiency signals a player operating at a new level. Murray’s All-Star case no longer feels speculative; it feels inevitable.
A signature performance sparks the campaign
Two nights after spraining his ankle, Murray produced one of the most accurate shooting displays in league history. He hit 19 of 25 shots and buried 10 of 11 threes. He finished with 52 points in a decisive win over the defending Eastern Conference champions. His 91 percent mark from three tied the highest in NBA history for any player taking at least ten attempts. It was the kind of night that defines seasons.
Denver’s offense erupts around its core
The Nuggets lead the league in scoring because its stars trade explosions. Aaron Gordon opened the season with a 50-point game. Jokić posted 55 in November. Murray then added his 52-point masterpiece as Denver came within one point of matching its season-high total. Their scoring bursts reflect a team built to overwhelm opponents with pace, precision and unselfish play. Jokić remains the engine, but Murray increasingly drives outcomes with him.
A streak finally ends
Murray’s rise signals a turning point for Denver. Jokić may finally share the stage with an honored teammate. The Nuggets no longer carry the strange distinction of producing historic success with no recognized co-star. This season offers a chance to correct that record and reward a partnership that anchored a championship run. Murray performs like a player ready for broader acclaim.
Credit: © Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images