3 Denver Nuggets Locked in for Next Season

Following a disappointing first-round exit, the Denver Nuggets are facing a highly unpredictable offseason with potential roster shakeups. While major adjustments might not take shape until the peak of the summer trade market in June and July, a few players feel entirely safe from being moved.

1. Nikola Jokic

To no one’s surprise, the franchise cornerstone isn’t going anywhere.

• The Future: Jokic is eligible for a massive long-term extension this offseason that could reach an annual average value of nearly $70 million, further solidifying his status as the face of the franchise.

• The Commitment: Team president Josh Kroenke explicitly shut down any trade possibilities during his end-of-season press conference. Furthermore, Jokic has consistently expressed his desire to spend his entire career in Denver. Expect him back in uniform for opening night in October.

2. Christian Braun

Braun’s roster spot is secured more by financial and logistical hurdles than a complete lack of trade interest from Denver’s front office.

• The Contract Obstacle: Before the season started, Braun signed a massive five-year, $125 million contract extension. This deal places a trade restriction on him until July and is currently difficult to move following a down year that lowered his market value.

• The Strategy: Because trading him this summer is highly unlikely, the front office will focus on rebuilding his value over the coming season. The goal will be to either help him recapture his year-three form or position him as a more attractive trade asset down the line.

3. Jalen Pickett

While Pickett plays a minor role on the court, his contract offers significant financial utility for a front office looking to trim expenses.

• The Financial Value: Pickett enters the summer on a team option worth just over $2.4 million. Because this figure sits below a standard veteran minimum salary, keeping him helps Denver cut costs around the margins.

• The Final Look: Entering the last year of his rookie contract, the 2023 second-round pick gives the Nuggets a low-risk opportunity to see if he can earn a consistent spot at the end of the rotation. If he doesn’t pan out, he still saves the team more money than a free-agent replacement would cost.