Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray has agreed to a five-year, $140 million rookie contract extension, solidifying his position as a cornerstone of the team’s future. The deal, announced on October 15, 2025, ensures Murray remains with the Kings through the 2030-31 season.
Murray, the fourth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, immediately made an impact by earning All-Rookie honors and helping Sacramento end its 16-year playoff drought. His consistent performance and development into a versatile two-way wing made this long-term commitment a logical step for the franchise. Over his first three seasons, he established himself as a reliable starter, playing in 233 of 246 possible games and contributing significantly on both ends of the court.
Statistically, Murray stands out as one of only three players—alongside Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards and Boston’s Derrick White—to record at least 500 three-pointers, 150 blocks, and 150 steals over the past three seasons. This unique combination of shooting and defensive prowess makes him invaluable to the Kings’ system, providing a balance to their offensively slanted roster. His ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim addresses multiple team needs in a single package.
Defensively, Murray served as Sacramento’s primary perimeter defender last season, matching up against All-Stars in 1,005 half-court possessions—the fifth-most such assignments in the league. His versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, from agile guards to larger forwards, which is crucial in today’s positionless NBA. This role highlights his growth from a rookie scorer to a complete player trusted with shutting down elite opponents.
Offensively, Murray averaged 12.4 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.4 assists while playing 34.3 minutes per game in 76 appearances last season. He’s one of seven players to make 150+ three-pointers in each of his first three NBA campaigns, providing essential floor spacing for Sacramento’s high-powered offense led by De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. While his scoring numbers have plateaued since his rookie year, his efficiency and defensive improvements have made him a more well-rounded contributor.
The extension comes with a temporary setback, as Murray will miss the first 10 games of the upcoming season after undergoing surgery for a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb. The injury occurred during a preseason contest, creating an early challenge for the Kings’ rotation and testing their depth. His absence will force the team to rely on other wings like Harrison Barnes and Kevin Huerter to fill the void in the opening weeks.
Despite this injury, the Kings demonstrated their faith in Murray’s long-term value by committing $140 million before he could enter restricted free agency. The move aligns with Sacramento’s aggressive offseason, which included signing veteran guard Russell Westbrook to bolster their playoff aspirations in the competitive Western Conference. General Manager Monte McNair has emphasized building a sustainable contender, and locking up young talent like Murray is a key part of that strategy.
Murray becomes the sixth NBA player to agree to a rookie extension this year, joining other young stars securing their financial futures ahead of the league deadline. His remarkable durability—playing 233 of 246 possible games before this injury—underscored the franchise’s confidence in his reliability and fit within their core. The Kings now have a clear path forward with Murray, Fox, and Sabonis leading the charge for years to come.
With Murray locked up through his prime years, the Kings have secured a foundational piece for their continued growth. His return from injury will be crucial as Sacramento navigates the competitive Western Conference landscape, aiming to build upon last season’s playoff appearance. The team’s ability to weather his early absence could set the tone for their season, while his long-term presence offers stability and defensive identity for the future.