Jokic in No Rush to Sign Record Contract with Nuggets, Waiting Until Next Summer
Nikola Jokic has stated his desire to spend his entire career with the Denver Nuggets but plans to delay signing a new deal until 2027, when he can secure the largest contract in NBA history.
Three-time NBA Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic has confirmed he wants to play his entire career with the Denver Nuggets, but he is not in a hurry to sign a new contract. Following a FIBA World Cup qualifier, the Serbian star told reporters that he will likely sign a new deal next year, as his goal is to stay in Denver.
Jokic currently has two seasons left on his contract, with a player option for the final year. Since June 14, he has been eligible to agree to a four-year maximum extension worth $278 million. However, by waiting until the summer of 2027, he can sign a five-year contract for $359.5 million, which would be the richest deal in NBA history. If he signs that contract, Jokic's career earnings from player salary would exceed $724 million.
The Nuggets have had a quiet offseason so far. The team has signed Tyus Jones and Marvin Bagley III, but lost Tim Hardaway Jr. to the Miami Heat. Denver also has yet to reach agreements with restricted free agents Peyton Watson and Spencer Jones.
Last season, Jokic finished second in MVP voting to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He averaged 27.7 points, a league-best 12.9 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game, marking his second career season with a triple-double average. However, the Nuggets were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
