Overview
- Nikola Jokić did not sign a contract extension this summer for a second straight year, a decision reported Tuesday that has put the Nuggets under increased league scrutiny.
- Jokić has told reporters he wants to stay in Denver and said he will probably sign an extension next season, but he framed the delay as a business move rather than a sign of unhappiness.
- By waiting until 2027 free agency he could become eligible for a five-year deal reported near $359.5 million instead of the current four-year supermax worth about $278–280 million.
- League insiders say the delay has rival teams watching Denver closely and has produced unconfirmed trade and recruitment speculation, including reported interest from contenders such as the Warriors.
- The move creates practical pressure for the Nuggets because their expensive roster and second-apron salary rules limit flexibility, so Denver must balance short-term competitiveness with the risk of losing leverage next season.