Photo: Peter Baba

Nikola Jokic is expected to wait until becoming an unrestricted free agent in 2027 before making a long-term decision on his future, leaving the Denver Nuggets without an extension for at least another year.

Nuggets general manager Jon Wallace addressed the situation during ESPN’s Summer League broadcast and expressed confidence that the franchise’s relationship with its superstar remains strong.

“We feel confident,” said Wallace. “We trust him. We’ve got no choice but to.”

Jokic is eligible to sign a four-year, $278 million extension with Denver this offseason.

However, by waiting until 2027, he could become eligible for a five-year, $359.5 million maximum contract that would also include a no-trade clause.

The three-time MVP also holds a $62.8 million player option for the 2027-28 season.

The Serbian center is coming off another outstanding campaign, averaging 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.7 assists while finishing second in MVP voting.

Jokic has now placed first or second in the MVP race in each of the past six seasons.

Nuggets Have 'No Choice But Trust' Nikola Jokic On Re-Signing In 2027 https://t.co/4cmhKH8bYP