What happened: Spencer Jones' two-year, $12 million offer sheet gives Denver a 48-hour matching window. His restricted status allows Denver to retain him by matching the contract.
Why it matters: The repeater rate makes the $6 million annual salary only part of the cost. Denver must weigh rotation continuity against another $32.2 million in tax.
By the numbers: The projected penalty would rise 88.5%, from $36.4 million to $68.6 million. Jones averaged 5.5 points and 3.3 rebounds across 64 appearances in 2025-26.
What to watch: Denver's matching decision will determine whether the higher tax projection takes effect.