Aaron Gordon, the Denver Nuggets’ versatile forward, is at a pivotal point in his career. On Friday, Gordon became eligible to sign a four-year, $149.5 million extension with the team. If he doesn’t reach an agreement and chooses to decline his $22.8 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season, he could become a free agent at the end of the upcoming season.
Both Gordon and the Nuggets appear optimistic about continuing their partnership, which has been a key to Denver’s recent success.
Gordon expressed his desire to remain with the Nuggets during the team’s media day. “I really love this organization. I love the players on this team. I love the coaching staff. So I hope we get it done. It seems like it’s moving forward in the right direction, so I’m excited.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Aaron Gordon, Denver Nuggets Updates
Denver’s front office, led by general manager Calvin Booth, shares that sentiment. “Hopefully we have some productive talks with his representation and we’re able to find a deal that we’re both satisfied with,” Booth said. “He’s been an integral part of what we’ve done, and we’d like to keep him here for a long time.”
Why Aaron Gordon Is Crucial to Denver’s Success
Since being acquired by the Nuggets from the Orlando Magic at the 2021 trade deadline, Aaron Gordon has transformed his game. He has emerged as Denver’s best and most versatile defender while playing the most efficient basketball of his career within their system. In 241 regular-season games for Denver, Gordon has averaged 14.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, all while posting an impressive 60.5% true shooting percentage.
Gordon’s role in the Nuggets’ system goes beyond the box score. His ability to guard multiple positions and fit seamlessly alongside Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Michael Porter Jr. has made him an indispensable part of Denver’s success. The 29-year-old forward played a pivotal role in their 2023 NBA Championship run, proving his worth as a critical component of the team’s core.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Aaron Gordon, Denver Nuggets Updates
Losing Gordon could be a significant setback for the Nuggets, especially after the team already sacrificed veteran depth this summer to stay under the second apron of the luxury tax. Denver let go of key players like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Bruce Brown, who were important to their wing rotation. Securing Gordon’s future would provide stability and ensure the team remains in title contention for years to come.
Negotiations and the Path Forward for Denver
The Nuggets have already extended key players like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray to long-term deals, solidifying their standing as part of Denver’s championship core. Now, all eyes are on Aaron Gordon and whether an extension can be reached. If he declines the player option and no deal is in place, Gordon could test free agency—a scenario the Nuggets would prefer to avoid.
Gordon’s current salary of $22.8 million for the upcoming season makes him a bargain in today’s market. His extension eligibility now allows him to sign for up to four years and $149.5 million, a fair price considering his value to the team. With Gordon’s elite defense, high basketball IQ, and ability to fit perfectly within Denver’s system, there’s little question that the Nuggets should prioritize retaining him.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Aaron Gordon, Denver Nuggets Updates
General manager Calvin Booth understands the importance of keeping Gordon. “We’d like to keep him here for a long time,” Booth said. “Hopefully we have some productive talks with his representation.” Extending Gordon would lock in the final piece of the Nuggets’ core alongside Jokic, Murray, and Porter Jr., and ensure the team remains a contender in the Western Conference for years to come.
As the Nuggets prepare for another deep playoff run, the clock is ticking on reaching an agreement. Both sides are optimistic, but a deal needs to be finalized soon to avoid uncertainty about Gordon’s future.
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