Nikola Jokić plans to sign record-breaking contract extension with Nuggets

During the Denver Nuggets Media Day, three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić addressed his future with the franchise. He announced his intention to sign a contract extension next summer, adding the playful qualifier, “If they want me.”

Jokić’s decision to delay an extension is primarily driven by financial strategy. While he was eligible for a four-year extension worth approximately $278 million this offseason, waiting until the 2027 offseason could allow him to sign a five-year deal projected at roughly $360 million, potentially the largest contract in NBA history.

Jokić expressed a desire to remain a “Nugget for life,” citing his loyalty to the team that drafted him. Denver Nuggets executive vice president of basketball operations Ben Tenzer stated that the organization has “no concerns” regarding the relationship and maintains high levels of trust with the star center.

In addition to contract discussions, Jokić reflected on the differences between NBA and European basketball. He noted that the pressure in Europe is intense, suggesting that NBA players would benefit from experiencing the high-stakes environment of playing against teams like Olympiacos, Crvena Zvezda, or Partizan.