Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic, who became eligible for a contract extension as of Tuesday, has decided to delay negotiations until next summer, according to reports from the Denver Post and ESPN. The decision involves Jokic’s potential deal with the Nuggets, who have expressed intent to offer him a lucrative contract extension.
Details of the Proposed and Possible Future Contracts
Jokic, a three-time NBA MVP, is currently eligible for a three-year extension valued at $206.4 million. However, the 30-year-old center has the option to wait until next year and pursue a maximum contract estimated at $285.4 million. The player has until October 20 to accept the current extension offer. If he declines, he can continue playing under the remaining three years of his five-year, $276 million contract signed in 2022, which includes a player option for the 2027-28 season worth $62.8 million.
If Jokic waits, a new deal could replace the player option year or potentially add a fourth year with an extra $77 million, as reported by ESPN. Salary cap increases and contract incentives will play important roles in shaping the final terms of any agreement. Once the 2024-25 NBA season begins, further extensions cannot take place until July 1, 2025.
Organization’s Stance on Extension and Jokic’s Decision-Making
Nuggets president Josh Kroenke confirmed that the team is committed to offering Jokic a contract extension this summer. He commented to reporters,
“We’re definitely going to offer it,”
and added,
“I’m not sure if he’s going to accept it or not, because we’re also going to explain every financial parameter around him signing now versus signing later. To be completely transparent, that’s the way we always are. And then he makes the best decision for himself and his family, and we’ll support him in it.”
Jokic’s Career Achievements and Impact
A seven-time NBA All-Star and consistent All-NBA team selection, Jokic first entered the league as the 41st overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft. The Serbian center has earned MVP honors in the 2020-21, 2021-22, and most recently the 2023-24 seasons, being a top-two MVP finalist for five consecutive years. Last season, Jokic recorded career highs including a triple-double average of 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game over 70 starts, adding 1.8 steals while averaging nearly 37 minutes per contest.
In the 14 playoff games last season, he averaged 26.2 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 8.0 assists. Over his career, Jokic holds averages of 21.8 points, 10.9 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.3 steals per game in 745 regular-season contests. He played a pivotal role in leading the Nuggets to the 2023 NBA Championship, where he received the NBA Finals MVP award for his outstanding performance.
Significance of the Delay and What Lies Ahead
Jokic’s choice to postpone contract talks reflects a strategic approach that balances financial considerations with long-term career planning. While the Nuggets remain eager to secure their franchise cornerstone, the player’s decision could impact future salary structures and team dynamics. As the next NBA season progresses, all eyes will be on Jokic’s decision-making window closing on October 20. The outcome will influence not only his career trajectory but also the Nuggets’ roster planning and championship aspirations going forward.