Denver Nuggets Convert Spencer Jones to Standard Contract

The Denver Nuggets have officially converted Spencer Jones from a two-way contract to a standard NBA contract for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. This decision comes as the Nuggets faced roster compliance issues, needing to fill their 14th roster spot after trading Hunter Tyson. Jones, who has started 34 of the 46 games he played this season, averaged 6.0 points, 3.1 rebounds, and shot 41.4% from three-point range. His performance has been particularly crucial given the team's injuries to key players such as Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson.

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Jones, an undrafted player from Stanford, began the season on a two-way contract, which limited his participation to 50 games at the NBA level. He reached this limit on February 4, 2026, coinciding with a concussion that delayed his contract conversion. The Nuggets had been planning to elevate him to a standard contract for several weeks, and with the deadline approaching, they needed to act swiftly to ensure compliance with league rules.

Denver Post

With Jones now on a standard contract, he is eligible to play for the remainder of the regular season and the playoffs. His promotion allows the Nuggets to maintain flexibility in their roster, as they still have one open spot available for potential acquisitions from the buyout market. Head coach David Adelman emphasized Jones' significant contributions, stating, “Obviously, what Spencer’s done for us this year has been beyond a small impact.”

Report: Denver Nuggets to convert Spencer Jones to standard contract for rest of season

Adelman noted the importance of Jones in the team's rotation, particularly during a season marked by injuries. “He’s guarded some of the best players in the league. He’s a big part of what we’ve done,” he said. The Nuggets are also looking to fill the two-way contract spot vacated by Jones, with plans to sign former Charlotte Hornets guard KJ Simpson.

The Nuggets finally complete the deal that everybody saw coming

While the conversion of Jones was largely anticipated, some analysts have questioned why the Nuggets did not secure him on a multi-year deal. This decision could complicate the team's financial situation in the offseason, as both Jones and fellow restricted free agent Peyton Watson will be seeking new contracts amid the Nuggets' projected salary cap constraints.

The Nuggets finally complete the deal that everybody saw coming

As the Nuggets prepare for the final stretch of the regular season, they currently sit third in the Western Conference standings. With 27 games remaining, the team aims to solidify its playoff positioning while navigating ongoing injuries. Jones' role as a reliable defender and floor spacer will be critical as the Nuggets pursue their championship aspirations.

Sports Illustrated

• “The guy’s started a million games for us. He’s guarded some of the best players in the league. He’s a big part of what we’ve done.” — David Adelman, Head Coach, Denver Nuggets

Denver Post

• “If Jones starts seven more games, he becomes the first player to earn the starter criteria qualifying offer as a straight two-way-to-standard deal conversion.” — Shams Charania, ESPN

ESPN

The Nuggets' decision to convert Spencer Jones to a standard contract not only addresses immediate roster needs but also sets the stage for potential future negotiations as the team looks to build on its current success.

Sports Illustrated