Nikola Jokic Plays the Long Game by Delaying Contract Extension
So, big news coming out of Denver—Nikola Jokic, the cornerstone of the Nuggets franchise and a three-time MVP, has officially decided not to sign a contract extension this offseason. Now, before anyone jumps to conclusions or starts panicking about what this means for the team’s future, let’s break it down. This decision is far more strategic than it is dramatic.
Jokic is currently in the middle of a supermax deal that still has two full years left, plus a player option for the 2027-28 season. This offseason marked the first time he became eligible to extend that contract, with an offer reportedly worth up to $212 million over three years. That's an eye-popping figure for most players, but here’s the kicker—if Jokic waits until next summer, he can actually sign for even more. We’re talking an extra $80 million more. That’s not just pocket change—it’s generational wealth.
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From the outside, it might look like he’s holding out or testing the waters, but in reality, this is a calculated move that the Nuggets front office fully expected. Josh Kroenke, the vice chairman of Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, was transparent in saying that they’d explain all the financial parameters and support whatever decision Jokic makes. That kind of trust between a superstar and the organization is rare and speaks volumes.
Let’s also not forget—Jokic is coming off arguably the best season of his career. He made NBA history by becoming the first center ever to average a triple-double over an entire season, with 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. He led the Nuggets through a hard-fought playoff run, although they fell short in the second round again. Still, he finished second in MVP voting behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and remains one of the league’s most dominant forces.
This isn’t about dissatisfaction or wanting out—Jokic himself has been clear: Denver needs more depth if they want to win another title. He’s spoken openly about it, and the front office responded. They’ve already reshaped the roster, brought in Cam Johnson via a high-profile trade for Michael Porter Jr., and hired a new head coach in David Adelman. There’s movement, there’s momentum.
So, what Jokic is doing here is smart. He’s betting on himself, and he’s giving the team time to build something stronger around him. He knows his value, he’s confident in his long-term future in Denver, and he’s not rushing into a deal that doesn’t maximize his potential earnings.
Bottom line—this isn’t a setback, it’s a strategy. Jokic isn’t going anywhere. He’s just being patient, measured, and thinking big. And honestly, when you're at his level, that’s exactly the kind of approach you take.
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