With a 50-32 record in 2024-25, the Nuggets finished fourth in the West. Their playoff run ended in heartbreak when they lost a seven-game thriller to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the conference semifinals.
NBA superstar Nikola Jokic raised eyebrows this summer when he turned down a massive three-year, $212 million contract extension from Denver. The decision sparked rumors about his future with the team.
But fans can breathe easy. NBA insider Zach Lowe reports “there has never been a whisper” of Jokic wanting to leave the Nuggets.
Jokic’s journey with Denver is pretty remarkable. Back in 2014, he was drafted in the second round during a Taco Bell commercial (yes, really). Now, the 30-year-old has transformed into one of the most dominant centers basketball has ever seen.
His trophy case is getting crowded. Seven All-Star appearances. Three league MVPs. And of course, that championship ring.
So why turn down $212 million? It’s just business.
Lowe explained that Denver’s front office is completely comfortable with Jokic’s decision to wait. The big man himself said it simply didn’t make financial sense to sign this summer. Both sides plan to revisit extension talks during the 2026 offseason instead.
The Nuggets have gone through some major shakeups lately. Former head coach Michael Malone was fired just weeks before last season ended. General manager Calvin Booth also got the boot. Several roster changes followed.
Through all this turbulence, Jokic has remained steady.
“Nuggets fans should relax,” Lowe said, noting that Jokic is locked in through the 2026-27 season. He’ll make $55 million this coming year and $59 million the next.
Jokic means everything to this franchise. Last season, he led the team in points, rebounds, and assists – the first time he’s averaged a triple-double for an entire season. That’s the kind of production you just can’t replace.
The 2025-26 season will be crucial for Denver. They need to prove they’re still championship contenders if they want to keep their superstar happy long-term.
The Nuggets begin their new campaign on October 23 with a road game against the Warriors.
