Contract Extension in Question.

On Friday, Aaron Gordon of the Denver Nuggets became eligible to sign a contract extension worth up to $149.5 million over four years. If he chooses not to sign and declines his $22.8 million player option for the 2025-26 season, the 29-year-old forward would become a free agent at the end of the upcoming season.

Since joining the Nuggets from the Orlando Magic at the 2021 trade deadline, Gordon has been a key asset, excelling as their top defender and playing some of the best basketball of his career within their system. At Denver’s media day on Thursday, both Gordon and general manager Calvin Booth expressed optimism about continuing their partnership.

“Hopefully, we can have productive discussions with his representatives and come to a mutually satisfying agreement,” Booth stated. “He’s been crucial to our success, and we’d like to keep him around for a long time.”

“I truly love this organization,” Gordon added. “I appreciate the players and coaching staff, so I hope we can get something done. It feels like we’re moving in the right direction, and I’m excited about the possibility of an extension and remaining with this team.”

Booth’s front office has faced criticism for letting Kentavious Caldwell-Pope leave in free agency without compensation, while securing a four-year max extension for cornerstone player Jamal Murray. Finalizing a deal with Gordon would further solidify his role within the Nuggets’ core, alongside Murray, Nikola Jokic, and Michael Porter Jr.