Keegan Murray could be receiving a big paycheck soon, and most people agree he's earned every penny.
However, if the Kings decide to give Murray a contract extension, it could hold them back in the future. Therefore, if Sacramento moves forward with a new deal, they should do what many fans are crying out for: use him more.
The Kings need to make a Murray extension worth it
The Athletic's John Hollinger recently went through the 2022 draft class and sized up how much each player could receive in an extension. According to him, Murray's new deal should be around $100 million over four years. $25 million a season isn't cheap, and it would eat into a huge chunk of Sacramento's bank account.
But it could be a very intelligent move, because Murray is the sort of young player a team would be smart to hold onto for a long time. He is one of the team's best defenders and has room for growth with his offense. If he is given more time—and a nice salary—he could develop into a true force to be reckoned with.
All signs point to Sacramento wanting to be in business with Murray for a long time, especially after news broke of them keeping him and Keon Ellis off limits in any potential talks for Jonathan Kuminga. Apparently, the Golden State Warriors would be eager to chat with Sacramento if Murray were on the table, but he's not, and that means something. Sacramento likes Murray and has every reason to. But just because they sign him doesn't mean they'll use him well.
The biggest concern among fans is that they don't trust the Kings to give him what he needs, beyond the money. There are worries that the Kings will load up their roster with shooters like Dennis Schroder and perhaps Russell Westbrook. If that's the case, what are the chances that Murray will be given the right opportunities to enhance his offensive toolbag?
If the Kings offer Murray his extension, they should focus on him more. There is nothing wrong with Schroder or Westbrook running the ball, but it needs to get into Keegan Murray's hands often. And what about Domantas Sabonis, who has been the focal point of Sacramento's offense for years? That would have to be tweaked too, if the Kings want the most out of Murray and hope for this to be a smart investment.
Fans should be nervous about this because it's no secret that the Kings haven't always used Murray well. Would that troubling trend continue?
Yes, the biggest fear is that the Kings will spend a hefty sum to keep Murray and then squander him. It wouldn't be the first time that Sacramento let a great talent slip through their fingers. Spending on Murray is wise and could be a long-term boon for the team, but only if they know how to use him.