The Denver Nuggets could be in line to secure their franchise star Nikola Jokic over a five-year, $146.5 million max deal after declining his team-option earlier today. Yet it is teammate Will Barton who could fall victim to this signing, another cog due for a major raise in order to stay in the Mile High City, according to ESPN Insider Bobby Marks.
Even bringing Barton back in an $8 million annual salary would cost the Nuggets a whopping $20 million in tax penalties, along with the other $20 million already projected for the 2018-19 season. The Nuggets do, however, have some cap flexibility ($34 million) with the expiring contracts, but will have to toe the line carefully if they hope to bring back one of their most important assets.
Barton, who primarily came off the bench last season, has been known to prioritize the right fit upon hitting free agency next month, likely looking for a promise to start in order to stay in Denver, no matter how much money is doled out to him.
That condition could be perhaps his worst enemy, as the front office has viewed him as a spark plug from the bench, but getting paid like a starter can also hinder his stint with this team.
Barton's stock is at an all-time high after posting career-best numbers in 2017-18 with 15.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, while shooting a clean 45 percent from the field and 37 percent from deep.
The 27-year-old started 40 of his 81 games played last season, by far the best of his six-year NBA career.
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