🚨 ESPN reports that Nikola Jokic has delayed contract extension talks with the Denver Nuggets until next summer (2026) — potentially aiming for a bigger max deal and keeping trade options, including a move to the Lakers, in play <br /><br />Jokic is eligible for a 3-year, $200M+ extension this offseason, but has opted to wait to gain another $77–80M and possibly a fourth year <br /><br />. While both parties remain on good terms, delaying the deal has stirred trade buzz—especially around L.A. Lakers interest amid their rebuild . <br /><br />Get full context on why Jokic’s timing strategy impacts Denver’s cap, potential Lakers scenarios, and free agency implications in the Western Conference. <br /><br />🔖 Hashtags + Keyword Tags (Inside Description) <br />Hashtags: <br />#ESPN #NikolaJokic #DenverNuggets #Lakers #NBAFreeAgency #NBA2025 #ContractExtension #NBARumors <br /><br />Keyword Tags (Inside Description): <br />Jokic extension delay, Jokic Lakers trade rumors, Denver Nuggets contract news, ESPN breaking NBA, Jokic 2026 deal, NBA Western Conference shakeup, Lakers future plans, Joker contractual strategy