Denver Nuggets Facing Contract Uncertainty with Rookie Star Spencer Jones

Concussion protocol and ongoing negotiations threaten to sideline the key two-way player as the Nuggets battle injuries.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Denver Nuggets have faced a rash of injuries this season, sidelining several key players including three-time MVP Nikola Jokic. One bright spot has been the emergence of rookie Spencer Jones, who has stepped up as an All-Star caliber two-way player. However, Jones' contract situation remains unresolved, as he is currently in concussion protocol following a collision and the Nuggets have yet to finalize a new deal with him. This uncertainty around Jones' availability threatens to further undermine the Nuggets' lineup as they try to maintain their playoff positioning.

Why it matters

The Nuggets have been decimated by injuries this season, and Jones has been a crucial contributor, providing size and defense at the forward position. Losing him would be a significant blow as Denver tries to weather the storm and remain competitive in the Western Conference playoff race. The contract negotiations add an extra layer of complexity to an already challenging situation for the team.

The details

Jones began the season in the G-League but earned a spot on the Nuggets' roster through his strong play, filling in for the injured Aaron Gordon. However, Jones' last game on his two-way contract was a double-overtime loss to the Knicks on February 4th. Since then, he has been in concussion protocol following a collision with Karl-Anthony Towns. The Nuggets now must either sign Jones to a new contract or send him back to the G-League, but the negotiations have stalled, leaving his availability uncertain.

  • Jones' last game on his two-way contract was the Nuggets' double-overtime loss to the Knicks on February 4th.
  • Aaron Gordon is expected to be out for at least another month due to a hamstring injury.

The players

Spencer Jones

A rookie who has emerged as an All-Star caliber two-way player for the Nuggets, providing size and defense at the forward position.

Nikola Jokic

The Denver Nuggets' three-time MVP who has been sidelined by injuries this season.

Aaron Gordon

A key forward for the Nuggets who is expected to be out for at least another month due to a hamstring injury.

Karl-Anthony Towns

The New York Knicks star who was involved in the collision that left Spencer Jones in concussion protocol.

David Adelman

The Denver Nuggets' head coach who has described the goal as reaching a contract agreement with Spencer Jones that is 'fair for both sides.'

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What they’re saying

“We must reach an agreement that is fair for both sides.”

— David Adelman, Denver Nuggets Head Coach

What’s next

If a new contract is not finalized before the Nuggets' next game against the Memphis Grizzlies, the two sides will have the entire eight-day All-Star break to continue negotiations. The Nuggets are also monitoring the upcoming NBA buy-out market for potential roster reinforcements.

The takeaway

The Spencer Jones contract situation highlights the challenges the Nuggets have faced this season with injuries and roster instability. Resolving Jones' status is crucial for Denver as they try to maintain their playoff positioning, with the team's depth at forward already tested by Aaron Gordon's absence.