The Denver Nuggets have made a key move to retain their championship core by extending forward Aaron Gordon’s contract for an additional four years. The deal, signed just before the extension deadline, reaffirms Gordon’s importance to the team following his instrumental role in Denver’s 2022-23 NBA title-winning season. The contract is structured as a three-year extension with a $37.1 million player option for the 2028-29 season. Additionally, Gordon exercised a $22.8 million player option for the 2025-26 season, ensuring his presence in Denver's lineup for the foreseeable future.
Gordon, 29, remains a crucial piece of the Nuggets’ defensive and offensive systems. Last season, he averaged 13.9 points and 6.5 rebounds across 73 games, continuing to be a dominant presence in both ends of the court. Known for his defensive versatility and athleticism, Gordon’s contributions were vital in helping Denver secure their first-ever NBA championship. His leadership and experience are expected to be even more valuable as the team looks to build on its success.
In addition to Gordon’s extension, the Houston Rockets made major moves by locking down two key players from their 2021 draft class—Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green—both of whom received lucrative rookie extensions. Sengun signed a significant five-year, $185 million deal, marking the largest contract among his 2021 draft class peers. Jalen Green, the second overall pick in 2021, agreed to a three-year, $106 million extension, solidifying his place as one of Houston’s cornerstone players.
Sengun, a standout center, had a breakout 2023-24 season, averaging career-highs of 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and five assists per game. His versatility and playmaking ability have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s top big men, and his performance last season placed him among an elite group of players—including Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid—who averaged at least 21 points, nine rebounds, and five assists. Sengun’s growth has been pivotal to the Rockets’ resurgence, with the team finishing the 2023-24 season with a balanced 41-41 record, a remarkable improvement of 19 wins from the previous year.
Jalen Green has also emerged as a key figure in Houston’s rebuilding efforts. Over his first three seasons, Green has consistently delivered, with career averages of 19.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. He has already amassed 4,450 career points, the highest total among players from his draft class, making him an integral part of Houston's future plans. Green’s athleticism, scoring ability, and leadership potential make him one of the most exciting young talents in the league.
Both Sengun and Green are crucial to the Rockets' ongoing development as they seek to return to playoff contention. Their impressive individual performances and long-term contract extensions signal Houston's commitment to building a strong foundation around these two rising stars. The team’s significant improvement last season, coupled with the continued growth of Sengun and Green, bodes well for the future of the Rockets.
In summary, the Nuggets’ extension of Aaron Gordon and the Rockets’ long-term commitment to Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green showcase the importance of maintaining a core group of players for both franchises. Gordon remains a defensive stalwart for Denver, while Sengun and Green represent the Rockets' bright future, as they continue their rebuilding journey with an eye on long-term success.
