Why Nikola Jokic’s Decision to Hold Off on a Nuggets Contract Extension Could Be a Smart Move

Nikola Jokic, the star center for the Denver Nuggets and a three-time MVP, has decided not to sign a contract extension this offseason. Instead, he plans to wait until next summer for contract discussions. Currently, he has at least two years left on his supermax deal, plus a player option for the 2027-28 season. The Nuggets had a chance to offer him a three-year extension worth about $206 million, but Jokic chose to hold off.

By delaying the contract, he stands to gain an additional $80 million if he waits until the 2026 offseason. The Nuggets had anticipated this choice, understanding the financial implications involved. KSE vice chairman Josh Kroenke mentioned earlier, “We’re definitely going to offer it. It’s up to him to make the best decision for himself and his family.”

At 30 years old, Jokic just wrapped up a remarkable season where he made history by averaging a triple-double throughout the year—29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. He finished second in the MVP voting to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a remarkable feat as he became the first player since Larry Bird to rank in the top two for MVP five years in a row.

The Nuggets, who won their first NBA championship in 2023, have struggled in the playoffs since then, being eliminated in the second round for two straight years. After their recent loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Jokic pointed out that the team needed better depth to compete for the title. Kroenke noted he took those comments “loud and clear.”

In response, the Nuggets have revamped their roster, bringing in four new players through trades and free agency. A significant move involved trading Michael Porter Jr. for Cam Johnson. Additionally, the team is gearing up for the next season with a new head coach, David Adelman, and an updated front-office leadership team.

As the offseason progresses, it’ll be interesting to see how these changes impact the team and Jokic’s eventual decision next summer.

For more in-depth articles on the Nuggets, check The Denver Post.

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