The Denver Nuggets' title defense didn't quite go according to plan, falling to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round of the postseason last year.

Although injuries and fatigue play a role, the Nuggets enter the 2024-25 season as one of the favorites to emerge from the Western Conference, behind only the Oklahoma City Thunder, according to oddsmakers.

With a healthy roster to start the season, point guard Jamal Murray is confident the championship window is still open.

MORE: Jamal Murray's max extension keeps Denver's core intact

“I think we’re ready to bounce back,” Murray said The Sports News.

“I think the energy is really high. We've had a great training camp and spent a lot of time together over the last few weeks, so I think all of that is starting to come into play and we're really looking forward to it going.

“I think we're going to be off to a great start just from the time we've had together and the time we've had to get to know each other on a personal level. So I’m looking forward to the translation on the pitch.”

With teams like the Thunder, Minnesota Timberwolves and Dallas Mavericks reshaping their rosters in the offseason, competition in the Western Conference will be as fierce as ever, but for Murray, the championship mentality remains strong as the Nuggets look to get back on top .

“Just win every game,” Murray said of the Nuggets’ approach this season.

“When you have a group that is talented and ready to win, that’s what it’s all about. So I think just winning should be everyone's priority, and if we keep it that way, then I think we can get the job done.”

The 27-year-old put up strong numbers last season with career-highs in points, assists and 3-point percentage as he continues to thrive in a potent two-man game with three-time MVP Nikola Jokic and outwhelm opponents They averaged 11.5 points per 100 possessions in their combined minutes last season.

With their continuity and chemistry, Denver's well-oiled machine will undoubtedly be one of the teams to beat in the West alongside players like Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon.

The Nuggets showed their confidence in their core in the offseason, signing Murray to a four-year, $208 million contract extension that kept him in Denver through 2028-29 season and keep their core intact for the foreseeable future.

Murray praises Westbrook's energy

While the Nuggets' core is intact, their rotation will take on a different look this season as shooting guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope signs with the Orlando Magic in free agency, opening the door for third-year guard Christian Braun to make his debut minutes to increase.

Along with KCP's departure, backup point guard Reggie Jackson also departed for Philadelphia. Taking his place is veteran guard Russell Westbrook, a player Murray would like to share the floor with.

“He just brings the energy, he brings the pace, he’s a vocal leader, he brings the competitive spirit and passion for the game,” Murray said.

“I think it will be really fun. It's always fun when someone is as interested in the game as you are. I think that's always fun and it's more about going out and trying to achieve a goal together.”

“After all these years of competing against each other and checking on each other from a distance, it's cool now to be on the same team and be able to come together and have the chemistry to get there and to win a championship.”

Murray is working on improving his NBA 2K rating

One of the most contentious debates leading up to a season always comes when annual NBA 2K player ratings drop, and this season is no different.

Murray enters the 2024-25 season with a rating of 87, one point lower than his 2K24 rating, and the Canadian is ready to work hard not only to help the Nuggets win, but also to climb the rankings to climb in the video game.

Jamal Murray will play #NBA2K25 early pic.twitter.com/kEAmnsjJpj

— NBA 2K25 Dispatch (News & Info) (@2KDispatch) September 3, 2024

“It could still be higher. That’s why you have to go into the season, improve and show it,” said Murray.

“I’m just excited to get on the court and improve the scoring.”