Jokic Expected to Delay Signing to Secure a $360 Million Extension

A delayed signing would let Jokic lock in a projected five-year, roughly $360 million payday and force Denver to prove it can build and afford a title-caliber roster.

Overview

Late September coverage reports that Nikola Jokic is widely expected to wait until summer 2027 before signing so he can become eligible for a projected five-year deal worth about $359.5–$360 million.
Jokic has publicly said he wants to stay in Denver, but his decision is being framed as contingent on how the Nuggets perform in the 2026–27 season.
Projections show the five-year extension would add roughly $80–$82 million in guaranteed money compared with the four-year alternative that would be available if he reaches unrestricted free agency.
Denver has already altered its roster this offseason, notably adding DeMar DeRozan while Jamal Murray enters the year off a high-scoring season, and coach David Adelman must make new pieces work quickly.
The expected delay heightens pressure on Denver’s salary-cap and luxury-tax planning because a landmark Jokic contract would constrain the team’s ability to add and retain complementary talent and shape the franchise’s championship window.