NBA Rumors: Nuggets, Nikola Jokic, Thunder, Isaiah Hartenstein, Warriors

Nuggets

Nikola Jokic doesn’t appear to be in any rush to sign a contract extension.

According to Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, there’s a growing belief the three-time MVP could once again postpone extension talks, potentially waiting until 2027 despite being eligible to sign a new deal this summer.

The reasoning is fairly simple. Stein and Fischer report Jokic doesn’t feel any urgency, knowing a similar contract should still be available next offseason.

Jokic has repeatedly said he wants to remain with the Nuggets for the rest of his career, and executive vice president Ben Tenzer recently expressed confidence in the relationship between the organization and its franchise cornerstone.

Meanwhile, Stein and Fischer report Denver continues exploring trade opportunities in an effort to strengthen the roster around Jokic after another early playoff exit.

Thunder

The structure of Isaiah Hartenstein‘s new contract is beginning to come into focus.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Oklahoma City will decline Hartenstein’s $28.5 million team option and instead sign him to a new three-year, $75 million contract that includes a 15 percent trade kicker and a mutual option in the final season.

The move not only keeps one of the Thunder’s most important frontcourt pieces in place, but also lowers Hartenstein’s cap hit for next season, giving Oklahoma City additional financial flexibility as it attempts to remain below the second tax apron.

That flexibility has already become a priority this offseason, with the Thunder moving Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins in separate salary-clearing deals while still facing decisions on Luguentz Dort and Kenrich Williams.

Warriors

Al Horford‘s new contract with the Warriors will reportedly include a little extra protection.

According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the two-year, $14 million deal is expected to feature a 15 percent trade kicker after Horford declined his $6 million player option to return to Golden State.

ESPN’s Anthony Slater and Shams Charania previously reported Horford’s contract would contain a trade kicker, though the percentage had not been disclosed.

For more Warriors rumors, click here.

MORE HOOPS | NBA free agents by team