Nikola Jokic Makes Nuggets Fans Worried: Not Extending Contract This Summer, Why?

In a move that has sent ripples through the NBA offseason, Nikola Jokic has reportedly informed the Denver Nuggets that he will not pursue a contract extension this summer, choosing instead to explore his full earning potential in 2026. As reported by Bennett Durando of The Denver Post, the reigning MVP continues to shape not only his personal career but also the future of the Nuggets franchise.

Let’s explore what this means for Jokic, the Nuggets’ championship hopes, and their ongoing roster rebuild after a disappointing playoff exit in 2025.

Nikola Jokic’s Contract Situation: Eyeing the Biggest Payday in NBA History

The 30-year-old Serbian superstar still has plenty of time on his current deal. He is locked in through the 2026-27 NBA season, with guaranteed earnings of approximately $115 million, plus a player option worth nearly $63 million for the 2027-28 season.

If Jokic were to sign an extension this summer, he could lock in an estimated three-year, $206 million deal. However, by waiting until the next offseason, he becomes eligible for a four-year extension worth approximately $285 million, potentially making it one of the largest contracts in NBA history.

For Jokic, this is not just about money. It’s a strategic move, giving him maximum flexibility and leverage while the Nuggets try to build a championship contender around him.

Roster Changes Reflect Jokic’s Championship Demands

Following their elimination by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Semifinals, Jokic did not shy away from publicly expressing the need for roster upgrades. The Nuggets front office responded with bold offseason moves, reflecting the urgency of keeping their superstar happy.

Among the key additions:

• Cam Johnson, acquired in a trade sending Michael Porter Jr. and a 2023 first-round pick the other way, adds a more consistent two-way presence on the wing.

• Jonas Valanciunas, a tough Lithuanian center, is reportedly being pursued in a trade package centered on Croatian forward Dario Saric. This move would bring valuable size and rebounding behind Jokic.

• Tim Hardaway Jr., signed in free agency, brings additional shooting and veteran leadership off the bench.

• Bruce Brown Jr., a crucial piece of the 2022-23 title run, has rejoined the squad to bolster perimeter defense and hustle plays.

• Promotion of David Adelman to permanent head coach after serving as interim, ensuring coaching stability and continuity.

These roster upgrades directly address Jokic’s calls for greater depth, toughness, and shooting around him.

Jokic’s Outstanding 2025 Season: A Third MVP, But No Title

Despite falling short in the playoffs, Jokic once again dominated the regular season and postseason stat sheets. In his tenth NBA season, the Serbian big man averaged:

• 29.0 points

• 12.7 rebounds

• 9.9 assists

• 1.8 steals

• 0.7 blocks

Jokic played 84 total games, leading the Nuggets through the highs and lows of the 2025 campaign. Though their season ended at the hands of eventual champions Oklahoma City, Jokic’s individual brilliance was undeniable, earning him a third career MVP award (2023-24) to go along with his previous wins in 2020-21 and 2021-22.

The Nuggets’ Core: Still a Championship Contender?

Even without the extension in place, the Nuggets still have a talented core:

• Jamal Murray, fully healthy and poised for an even bigger offensive role.

• Aaron Gordon, the defensive glue and versatile forward.

• Cam Johnson, filling the role left by Porter Jr. but with a steadier shot selection.

• Jonas Valanciunas (if acquired), providing inside presence.

• Bruce Brown Jr., energizing the bench.

With these pieces, Denver remains a top contender in the Western Conference, alongside powerhouses like Oklahoma City, Minnesota, and a resurgent Golden State.

Why Jokic Is Betting on Himself

Nikola Jokic’s decision to delay extension talks makes sense from both financial and competitive perspectives:

1. Financially, waiting until 2026 allows him to benefit from the rising salary cap, maximizing the length and value of his next deal.

2. Competitively, it puts subtle pressure on Denver’s front office to continue building a roster capable of winning more championships. Jokic clearly expects more than just personal accolades.

Unlike many superstars who lock in long-term deals early for security, Jokic is betting on his continued health and performance to guarantee his next massive payday.

David Adelman’s Challenge: Managing Expectations

As the new permanent head coach, David Adelman inherits a loaded roster but also the pressure of coaching one of the league’s most demanding superstars. Jokic’s basketball IQ is off the charts, and he expects the coaching staff to be equally sharp.

Adelman, known for his analytical mind and calm demeanor, is expected to build on the foundation laid by former head coach Michael Malone. Whether he can elevate the Nuggets beyond the Western Conference Semifinals will be one of the defining storylines of the 2025-26 season.

The EuroBasket Question: Will Jokic Play for Serbia?

Another subplot swirling around Jokic’s summer is his potential participation in EuroBasket 2025. Serbia remains one of the tournament favorites, but Jokic has yet to commit to the national team.

Given his heavy NBA workload and previous summers spent resting, many believe Jokic may skip the competition to focus on recovery and preparing for another long NBA season. However, the chance to bring another title to Serbia could be tempting.

Nuggets Fans: Cautious but Confident

For Nuggets fans, Jokic’s decision to wait on his extension is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s a smart business move for their franchise player. On the other, any delay opens the door for doubt and speculation about his long-term commitment.

But Jokic has never shown signs of wanting to leave Denver. He has repeatedly voiced his love for the city, the fans, and the organization that believed in him when he was drafted 41st overall.

Jokic’s Legacy: Already an All-Time Great

With over 839 career appearances, including a championship in 2023, three MVP awards, and a Finals MVP, Jokic is already a lock for the Hall of Fame. But he isn’t satisfied with just one ring.

His legacy is still being written, and it seems clear that he wants to add multiple championships to his resume before he considers his career complete.

The Nuggets’ Path Forward: Win Now

Denver’s front office, led by Calvin Booth, has heard Jokic’s message loud and clear. This offseason has been all about win-now moves:

• Shedding Michael Porter Jr.’s inconsistency for Cam Johnson’s reliability.

• Chasing a traditional big man in Jonas Valanciunas to ease Jokic’s defensive burden.

• Bringing back Bruce Brown to restore the defensive identity they lacked in the 2025 playoffs.

These aren’t rebuilding moves — they’re moves aimed at maximizing the Jokic window.

Western Conference Outlook: Tougher Than Ever

The West remains a gauntlet. In addition to the Thunder and Timberwolves, Denver will face stiff competition from:

• Golden State Warriors, now healthy and reloaded.

• Phoenix Suns, with Devin Booker and Kevin Durant still lethal.

• Los Angeles Lakers, who always find a way to contend.

• Dallas Mavericks, headlined by Luka Doncic.

Denver’s path back to the NBA Finals will not be easy, but with Jokic playing at an MVP level, they have every reason to believe they can return.

Final Thoughts: Jokic’s Patience Is Strategic, Not Worrisome

Nikola Jokic declining a contract extension this offseason should not be a cause for panic in Denver. It’s a smart, calculated move from a player who has always approached his career with maturity and thoughtfulness.

The Nuggets have retooled the roster as Jokic requested. Now, it’s up to the team to deliver results in 2025-26.

If they do, Jokic will almost certainly sign that record-breaking supermax deal next summer, keeping him in Denver for the rest of his prime.

Until then, expect Jokic to continue doing what he does best: quietly dominating the NBA, one triple-double at a time.