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Victor Petkov
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Nikola Jokic delays contract extension, aims at bigger Supermax deal next summer
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Serbian superstar of Denver wants assurance that the team will be strengthen enough to fight for the title again

Nikola Jokic has chosen not to sign a contract extension with the Denver Nuggets this summer, even though he became eligible on Tuesday to agree to a new three-year deal worth approximately $212 million.

While this decision might raise eyebrows among fans and pundits, it is widely understood to be financially motivated rather than a sign of his intention to leave the franchise. By waiting until next summer, Jokic will become eligible for a more lucrative four-year supermax extension worth $293.4 million.

That future deal would not only offer him an additional $80 million but would also see him earning around $81 million in the final year alone, the highest single-season salary in NBA history.

Although Jokic still has three years remaining on his current contract, his choice to delay an extension puts pressure on the Nuggets’ management to ensure that the team remains a true championship contender. Jokic has been the face of the Denver franchise since being drafted in 2015, leading the team to its first NBA title in 2023 and winning three MVP awards over the past five years.

In recent weeks, Denver’s front office has responded by bolstering the roster, bringing back Bruce Brown, signing Cam Johnson, and reportedly finalizing a deal for veteran center Jonas Valanciunas.

There has also been speculation about Jokic’s future following comments from team owner Josh Kroenke, who recently hinted that the possibility of Jokic leaving the franchise cannot be entirely ruled out.