The Nuggets are back in action. On Monday, players and coaches will gather at Ball Arena for a series of press conferences, followed by four days of training camp in San Diego. As the unofficial start of the 2025-26 season kicks off with media day, here are five key storylines to watch.
1. Nikola Jokic’s Contract Negotiations on Hold
Jokic chose not to accept the $207 million extension available this summer, opting to postpone discussions until the 2026 offseason. This decision, driven by financial motivations, allows the Nuggets to propose an additional year next summer—translating to around $80 million. Despite speculation from rival teams like the Warriors, Clippers, and Lakers, the front office in Denver remains confident that Jokic will stay. To quell rumors, Jokic could declare his intention to sign the Nuggets’ offer next year, which would secure him until age 36.
2. Jonas Valanciunas’s Mindset
Denver’s new backup center has spent the summer participating with the Lithuanian national team. Valanciunas expressed his commitment to the Nuggets following a failed contract offer from Greek team Panathinaikos, which required his release from the NBA. He will soon address American reporters for the first time since this unusual trade. Questions remain about his feelings on playing in Europe next year and whether the Nuggets will guarantee his 2026-27 salary, especially considering this will be his fourth NBA team in three years.
3. Changes to the Championship Core
The arrival of Cam Johnson marks a significant roster shift, with Michael Porter Jr. departing. Johnson, introduced in a press conference earlier this summer, has started training with new teammates. As media day approaches, reflections on MPJ’s contributions to the Nuggets and Johnson’s fit alongside established players will dominate discussions. The upcoming training camp and preseason games will test how well Johnson integrates into the starting lineup.
4. Rookie Contract Extensions on the Horizon
The situation regarding Christian Braun and Peyton Watson’s contracts is particularly intriguing, albeit lacking the marquee appeal of Jokic’s extension. Both players, alongside their fellow 2022 draftees, are entering the final year of their rookie contracts and have until the offseason ends to negotiate extensions. If they don’t, they will face restricted free agency next summer. With the potential of hitting salary cap limits, the Nuggets are navigating a delicate balance in discussions about extensions.
5. David Adelman’s First Training Camp
The Adelman Era starts now. After stepping in as interim coach last April, he secured the full-time position and an offseason to prepare. This training camp will be his first in charge, prompting questions about rotation decisions, lineup flexibility, and player management strategies, especially regarding Jokic’s rest. As the Nuggets build around a new coaching staff and leadership structure, the atmosphere in San Diego is under scrutiny, following the positive reception of Adelman’s leadership in the playoffs.
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