Nikola Jokic Set to Make NBA History With Projected $360 Million Nuggets Contract

Nikola Jokić is on course to become the highest-paid player in NBA history, with the Denver Nuggets superstar eligible for a projected five-year contract worth around $360 million next summer.

The three-time NBA MVP has delayed signing a contract extension during each of the past two offseasons. Rather than accepting a shorter extension now, Jokić has chosen to wait until the 2027 offseason, when he can potentially secure a much larger five-year deal. Current projections put the value at approximately $359.5 million, which would make it the largest contract in NBA history.

Jokic Confirms His Plans

Questions about Jokić’s future in Denver increased after he passed on an extension this summer. However, the Serbian superstar has repeatedly indicated that his intention is to remain with the Nuggets.

At the team’s Media Day, Jokić gave his clearest indication yet that he expects to sign a new deal next summer.

“I’m going to sign next year… if they want me,” Jokić said. He also explained that he has been open with the Nuggets’ front office and ownership about his intentions.

That statement followed earlier comments in which Jokić said his plan was to stay in Denver for the remainder of his career.

Why Jokic Is Waiting Until 2027

Jokić could have signed a four-year extension worth roughly $278 million during the current offseason. By waiting until next summer, however, he can potentially qualify for a five-year supermax contract worth around $359.5 million.

The projected agreement would also give him an additional guaranteed season compared with the extension he could have signed this year.

For Jokić, therefore, delaying the extension is primarily a financial decision rather than an indication that he is preparing to leave Denver.

Jokic Remains the Centerpiece of Denver

Jokić has spent his entire NBA career with the Nuggets after Denver selected him with the 41st pick of the 2014 NBA Draft.

He has since become one of the most decorated players in franchise history, winning three MVP awards and leading Denver to its first NBA championship in 2023.

His 2025-26 regular season was another remarkable statistical campaign. Jokić averaged 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds and 10.7 assists per game, finishing second in MVP voting and averaging a triple-double across the full season.

The Nuggets were eliminated by Minnesota in the first round of the 2026 playoffs, but Jokić has continued to express his desire to compete for another championship in Denver.

A Record Deal Still Needs to Be Signed

Although reports currently project a five-year deal worth around $360 million, it is important to note that the contract has not yet been signed.

Jokić will have to reach the 2027 offseason before the projected agreement can become a reality. Until then, the $359.5 million figure should be treated as a potential maximum contract rather than a confirmed deal.

If the projected numbers hold and Jokić signs the agreement, it would become the largest contract in NBA history and could keep the three-time MVP in Denver through the remainder of his prime.