Nuggets' Updated NBA Salary Cap After Spencer Jones Contract Pushes Team Into Second Apron

The Denver Nuggets have secured forward Spencer Jones after matching the two-year, $12 million offer sheet presented by the Oklahoma City Thunder. By choosing to retain the restricted free agent, the Nuggets have now moved into the second apron of the NBA salary cap. This financial shift brings a $68 million tax penalty for the organization.

Jones originally signed with Denver as an undrafted free agent out of Stanford before the 2024-25 season. He played a consistent role during the 2025-26 campaign, where he appeared in 64 games and earned 37 starts. His contributions proved valuable during the postseason, particularly while Aaron Gordon was sidelined, as Jones shot 68.4 percent from the field.

Matching this offer prevents the team from being limited to a veteran minimum contract in their search for frontcourt depth. The front office now turns its attention to another restricted free agent, Peyton Watson, who is looking for a significant pay increase. The team remains open to a sign-and-trade deal regarding Watson as they manage their current roster constraints.

Denver has maintained most of its core pieces from last year despite a quiet summer caused by these financial realities. The second apron creates tight restrictions, meaning the decision to keep Jones highlights the team's commitment to their existing rotation as they look toward the upcoming season.