Despite Nikola Jokic saying that he intends to sign an extension with the Denver Nuggets next year, due to being eligible for a larger contract, there is doubt about the situation if the roster around Jokic doesn't reach expectations.
According to John Hollinger of The Athletic, there is still uncertainty about Jokic's promise to sign with the Nuggets from Denver, concerning the team around the three-time MVP.
"While the best Nugget ever has insisted that he wants to stay in Denver and sign a massive five-year deal worth a projected $360 million, there is justifiable paranoia in the Mile High City that the shortcomings of the rest of the roster may cause his eye to wander," Hollinger wrote.
Jokic's contract situation
Jokic is currently on the supermax extension he signed with the Nuggets in 2022. His current deal runs through the 2027-28 season, though the final year includes a player option.
He is already eligible to sign a four-year extension worth around $280 million, but waiting until next offseason could put him in position for an even bigger contract.
"I'm gonna sign next year. If they want me," Jokic stated during Nuggets media day as he is expected to sign a record five-year, $360 million deal.
Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokic
Nuggets' roster ahead of the 2026-27 season
While additions like Cameron Johnson, Jonas Valanciunas and Tim Hardaway Jr. didn't pan out for Denver last season as they finished the campaign being knocked out in the first round, they have made some new additions to build a contender around Jokic.
Forward signings like DeMar DeRozan and Alpha Diallo add depth around Nikola with Marvin Bagley III serving as a replacement for Valanciunas at center.
They have also retained Tyus Jones, who arrived to the team late last season and added Ryan Nembhard to strengthen their backcourt.