Now, what makes this deal particularly interesting is the impact it has on the Nuggets' financial outlook and team structure. Gordon’s extension comes with some intricate financial details that benefit both him and the team. While his contract allows him to opt-in for his $22.8 million salary in the 2025-26 season, it also brings significant luxury tax relief to Denver. For a team eyeing future championships, this is a big win on both ends. The Nuggets have locked in one of their most versatile players without completely sacrificing financial flexibility.
Breaking Down the Numbers
So, what’s in it for Gordon? Over the next few seasons, he’ll be cashing in with an average annual salary of $36.7 million. His paychecks will get even fatter as the seasons progress, thanks to an ascending salary structure. To break it down: Gordon’s cap hit will be just shy of $32 million in the 2026-27 season, $34.5 million in 2027-28, and a staggering $37.1 million in 2028-29, which also happens to be the season where he holds a player option. This ascending structure reflects the team’s belief in his value over time and aligns perfectly with the increasing salary cap. Not only does this deal reward Gordon for his previous contributions, but it’s also a bet on his continued development and impact on the team.
But Gordon’s new contract is not just about securing his future; it’s part of a broader strategy by the Nuggets to ensure their core remains intact for years to come. With Jamal Murray’s max extension kicking in next year, the Nuggets are committing a whopping $163.3 million in salary for the 2025-26 season just between Gordon, Murray, two-time MVP Nikola Jokic, and sharpshooter Michael Porter Jr. That’s a massive investment in just four players, but when you’re the reigning NBA champions, keeping your championship core together becomes a top priority.
The Big Picture for the Nuggets
So, what does this mean for Denver’s overall salary cap and future flexibility? Well, despite the heavy financial commitments, the Nuggets are still estimated to be $7.1 million below the second tax apron for the next season. That’s some smart maneuvering by the front office, ensuring they remain competitive while avoiding massive penalties that come with exceeding the tax apron. For a team that’s looking to build a dynasty, financial health is just as crucial as talent on the court. And speaking of talent, Denver has 13 players tentatively under contract for that season, although two of those contracts (Russell Westbrook and Dario Saric) come with player options. It’ll be interesting to see how those play out, but the core is locked, loaded, and ready to chase more championships.
Now, let’s take a trip down memory lane. Back in 2020, the Nuggets acquired Gordon in a blockbuster trade with the Orlando Magic, sending Gary Harris, RJ Hampton, and a 2025 first-round draft pick to Orlando in return. At the time, Gordon was viewed as a lead scoring option for the Magic, but his role evolved significantly in Denver. Instead of being the main offensive weapon, Gordon learned how to mesh with Jokic, perhaps the most unique center in the league, in a frontcourt that became crucial to the Nuggets’ style of play. His ability to adapt, transition, and find a new role within a system is part of what makes him such a valuable player.
Aaron Gordon’s Playoff Heroics
Gordon’s impact has been more than just numbers and cap space. During Denver’s historic 2023 playoff run, Gordon stepped up when it mattered most, becoming a defensive powerhouse. He was tasked with guarding some of the best players in the league, from Karl-Anthony Towns and Kevin Durant to LeBron James and Jimmy Butler. Holding his own against these offensive juggernauts, Gordon proved he’s more than just a highlight-reel dunker; he’s a versatile, two-way player who can change the course of a game on both ends of the floor. His defensive prowess was a major factor in the Nuggets capturing their first-ever NBA championship, solidifying his place in Denver’s basketball lore.
In fact, Gordon’s playoff run was a revelation. Not only did he guard some of the league's best players, but he also fit seamlessly into Denver’s offensive system. He became a key cog in their pick-and-roll game, particularly with the deadly combination of Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic. When defenses focused too much on Jokic’s floaters or Murray’s sharpshooting, Gordon was ready to dive to the rim for thunderous alley-oop finishes.
Gordon's Game in Numbers
Since joining the Nuggets, Gordon’s numbers have been solid, if not eye-popping. In 3 ½ seasons and 241 regular-season games, he’s averaged 14.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. But stats don’t tell the full story of his contribution to Denver’s success. Gordon’s role has been about much more than just putting the ball in the basket. He’s dunked the ball 512 times as a Nugget, according to Basketball Reference, which accounts for 22.3% of his total field goal attempts with the team. A lot of those dunks come off of beautiful setups from Jokic, who draws defenders and opens up lanes for Gordon to finish strong at the rim. In the dunker spot, Gordon thrives, especially when defenses are too focused on stopping Jokic and Murray. It’s a lethal combination that has made Denver’s offense one of the most feared in the league.
Looking ahead, this extension signals that the Nuggets are confident in their ability to remain championship contenders for years to come. With their core locked up and their financials in good shape, they’ve positioned themselves as a force in the Western Conference. For Aaron Gordon, this extension is more than just a payday; it’s a vote of confidence in his ability to keep being a crucial piece of a title-contending team.
The Nuggets have made it clear: they’re not just aiming for one championship—they’re building for sustained success. And with players like Aaron Gordon leading the way, the sky’s the limit.
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