According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Denver Nuggets guard Reggie Jackson will pick up his $5.25 million player option for next season.
ESPN Sources: Denver Nuggets guard Reggie Jackson is picking up his $5.25M option to return for the 2024-2025 season. Jackson averaged 10.2 points and 3.8 assists in 82 games. pic.twitter.com/0xWIwX1PQg
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 24, 2024
The 34-year-old has spent the last season-and-a-half with the Nuggets and was with the team when they won their first franchise championship in 2023. In his Nuggets career so far, Jackson has averaged 9.8 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.
Jackson has provided a veteran presence and depth for the Nuggets off the bench. However, he has also started in place of Jamal Murray numerous times.
Denver Nuggets Champion Makes Decision on Player Option
Reggie Jackson Was Not Expecting a Big Role in 2023-24
Since joining the Nuggets, Jackson has been utilized off the bench and started games only if needed. In the 2023 NBA Finals run, Jackson appeared in just six games over the course of the entire postseason. Furthermore, he averaged 3 minutes and less than 1 point per game. Expectations were that he would not have a big role with the Nuggets in their title defense last season. However, Jackson had a productive season with the team and even appeared in all 12 of Denver’s playoff games. During the postseason run, Jackson made it clear he was not expecting to take on a bigger role.
“No, definitely not. We’ve got one of the best point guards in the league. Unfortunately, it hasn’t been the healthiest season for him, so just happy to step up and do my part.”
By picking up his player option, Jackson now has just one year remaining on his contract. The Boston College product will continue to provide depth for the team. Additionally, it seems like he is prepared to take on a larger role once again next season if needed.
List of Denver Nuggets Free Agents Besides Reggie Jackson
Now that Jackson has opted in, the Nuggets will have up to seven free agents this offseason. Guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope also has a player option for this season. Recently, reports have indicated that the Philadelphia 76ers will likely pursue him this summer. It will be interesting to see what Caldwell-Pope does and where he will play basketball next season. Additionally, DeAndre Jordan, Justin Holiday, and Vlatko Cancar are all unrestricted free agents. However, according to Tony Jones of The Athletic, the Nuggets and Cancar are “working towards” a new contract. Additionally, Collin Gillespie, Jay Huff, and Braxton Key are all restricted free agents this summer.
The Last Word on Reggie Jackson
Jackson coming back for another season with Denver is a good thing for the team. He provides a lot on the court and knows the system. With his contract status now solidified for next season, the Nuggets can cross one priority off their to-do list for the offseason. After a disappointing second-round playoff exit to the Minnesota Timberwolves during the 2024 NBA Playoffs, the Nuggets will aim to bounce back and return to the NBA Finals.
