Nuggets, Nikola Jokic expected to work on contract extension

The Nuggets are expected to take care of their biggest priority this offseason.

Denver and Nikola Jokic are anticipated to work toward a contract extension this summer, according to Shams Charania of ESPN. Jokic made his intentions clear after the team’s playoff exit, saying he wants to remain in Denver long term.

“I still want to be a Nugget forever,” Jokic said.

Charania echoed that sentiment, noting the organization believes Jokic is fully committed.

“This is not a situation where he’s talking about leaving,” Charania said. “He’s very internally and externally ‘I’m here, no matter what.’”

Jokic has two years left on his current deal, including a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28. A new extension could be worth roughly $285 million over four years, based on projected cap figures.

The 31-year-old is coming off another MVP-caliber season, averaging 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds and 10.7 assists while leading the league in rebounds and assists.

That said, changes could be coming around him.

Denver is facing financial pressure with a costly roster, and Charania suggested there will be “some level of change” this offseason. Decisions loom on players such as Peyton Watson, while others, including Cameron Johnson, have surfaced in trade chatter.

Jokic appears locked in. The rest of the roster may not be.