Jokic expected to wait, then sign record $360M Nuggets extension

League sources expect Nikola Jokic to re-sign with Denver rather than test free agency, per Yahoo Sports' Kevin O'Connor. He'd likely wait until next summer to sign a five-year, $360 million extension, the richest deal in league history, after twice passing on earlier extensions.

Turning down his $62.84 million option for 2027-28 would instead open the door to unrestricted free agency and an even bigger payday.

O'Connor says the delay is about financial timing, not any wish to leave, though Denver still needs to upgrade the roster around Jokic, and he could reconsider if the Nuggets fail to build a contender.

The expected deal would end speculation about the Lakers pairing Jokic with Luka Doncic. Any Lakers pursuit would likely require a sign-and-trade built around Austin Reaves or Walker Kessler.