In a surprising yet calculated decision, reigning NBA superstar Nikola Jokić is reportedly not planning to sign a contract extension with the Denver Nuggets this summer, according to sources close to the situation. Instead, the two-time MVP intends to wait until the 2026 offseason before engaging in serious contract negotiations.
Jokić, who is still under contract through the 2025–26 season, is eligible for a significant extension this summer. However, league insiders suggest the Serbian center is in no rush — a move that could be rooted in both financial and strategic considerations.
A Calculated Gamble
Waiting could give Jokić the chance to negotiate an even more lucrative deal under the rising salary cap projections. With the NBA’s media rights deal expected to explode league revenue in the coming years, top-tier players like Jokić stand to benefit from waiting out current CBA thresholds.
By deferring contract talks, Jokić may become eligible for the richest contract in NBA history next summer, depending on cap growth and performance incentives.
No Rift with Denver
Sources also stress that this decision should not be interpreted as a sign of tension between Jokić and the Denver Nuggets organization. On the contrary, team executives remain confident that their franchise cornerstone is committed to Denver long-term.
Jokić has repeatedly expressed his affection for the city, the franchise, and head coach Michael Malone. He led the Nuggets to their first NBA championship in 2023 and remains the heart of the team’s title aspirations.
What’s Next for the Nuggets?
While Jokić’s decision introduces a layer of uncertainty, it also allows Denver to stay flexible as they retool their roster around him. The team has already faced the challenge of luxury tax restrictions and roster depth following the departures of key role players over the past two seasons.
The front office will now need to manage roster-building with the awareness that a potentially massive contract may be looming next summer — and that every move they make could influence Jokić’s long-term commitment.
A Subtle Message?
Though quiet by nature, Jokić’s decision to wait could also be a subtle message to the Nuggets’ leadership: continue building a contender, or risk watching one of the greatest players of his generation explore alternatives.
For now, Jokić remains the face of the Nuggets — but with next summer shaping up to be pivotal, the clock has unofficially started ticking in Denver.
