NBA rumors: Warriors insider clearly trying to make Nikola Jokic leaving Nuggets a thing

Golden State Warriors insider Tim Kawakami has fueled speculation regarding Nikola Jokic's future, claiming that the Serbian center signing a long-term extension with the Denver Nuggets is not guaranteed. Kawakami indicated that while Jokic remains likely to return to Denver, the situation is an open matter. The writer, Rishabh Bhatnagar, notes these comments follow prior suggestions from Kawakami that the Warriors have an attainable target on the Nuggets.

Jokic previously declined a four-year, $278 million extension in 2026 to potentially pursue a five-year supermax contract in 2027. Despite holding a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28 and stating he wants to remain with Denver, reports from insiders including Jake Fischer suggest the Warriors are monitoring his availability. Bhatnagar concludes that there currently appears to be more smoke than fire regarding the rumors.