TITLE: Jokic May Hold Off on $200M-Plus Extension, Putting Off-Season Spotlight on Nuggets Front Office
SLUG: jokic-delays-extension-talks-increasing-pressure-on-denver
CONTENT:
Nikola Jokic is expected to postpone negotiations on a contract extension with the Denver Nuggets until the summer of 2027, a move that could push the value of a new deal beyond $200 million and add an extra year to the pact.
League sources told multiple outlets this week that the reigning three-time MVP, who has said publicly he hopes to “be a Nugget forever,” sees no urgency to finalize terms before the 2026-27 campaign. By waiting, the 31-year-old center would become eligible for a longer agreement under collective-bargaining rules.
Heightened pressure on Denver brass
The decision leaves Denver’s front office facing its first major contract question of the Jokic era. Team president Josh Kroenke, speaking after the club’s first-round playoff exit, said every player except Jokic could be moved as the Nuggets search for roster upgrades.
Local reporting suggests Jokic’s stance may increase internal urgency to surround him with a title-caliber supporting cast. While ownership has no explicit directive to slash payroll, executives are expected to tread carefully around the luxury-tax and apron thresholds.
Trade chatter surrounds key rotation pieces
Denver is not actively shopping forward Aaron Gordon or guard Jamal Murray, but has taken calls on both veterans, according to league insiders. Gordon has surfaced as a fallback option for the Heat and Trail Blazers, while Murray’s name has circulated in wider league discussions.
Among potential additions, Brooklyn forward Cameron Johnson has drawn interest from the Lakers, Celtics, Heat, Clippers, and Magic. Bench scorer Tim Hardaway Jr. could return only at a discount, as he is expected to attract offers equal to the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.
Coaching staff tweak under consideration
The Nuggets are also searching for a former NBA head coach to serve as lead assistant to David Adelman next season, sources said.
No formal timetable has been set for resuming extension talks with Jokic, but Denver officials now enter the off-season with roster construction, luxury-tax positioning, and staff changes all under heightened scrutiny.
Source: HoopsRumors
