Why Nikola Jokic delayed his extension with the Nuggets

Three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic has opted not to sign his contract extension this summer, according to multiple media reports, despite being eligible for a three-year, and around $206.4 million deal on Tuesday.

Instead, he’s choosing to delay talks until summer 2026, aiming to secure a longer, more lucrative four-year extension worth around $285-293 million - a potential increase of approximately $80 million

The decision, first reported by The Denver Post, doesn’t impact his short-term future with Denver. Jokic still has two guaranteed years left - $55.2 million for 2025-26 and $59 million for 2026-27 - plus a $77 million player option for 2027-28.


Vice chairman Josh Kroenke earlier confirmed the Nuggets would present both options to Jokic and support whichever path he took. By waiting, Jokic could earn significantly more under the NBA's rising salary cap.

The 30-year-old Serbian star is coming off a historic season where he averaged 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists, becoming the first center in NBA history to average a triple-double. He posted a franchise-record 34 triple-doubles, including a 61-point triple-double, and surpassed Larry Bird as the fastest player to reach 16,000 points, 8,000 rebounds, and 5,000 assists.

Even in a turbulent season that saw head coach Michael Malone and GM Calvin Booth dismissed with three games left, Jokic led Denver to a strong finish.

The Nuggets swept their final three regular-season games, beat the Clippers in seven, and pushed the eventual champion Thunder to a full seven-game series in the Western Conference semifinals.


A second-round pick in 2014, Jokic has grown into a five-time All-NBA First Team selection and delivered Denver its first NBA championship in 2023. He's currently spending his offseason in Serbia, recently spotted celebrating a horse-racing win.