Nuggets guarantee Monte Morris' 2020-21 salary; both sides eye extension

Nuggets point guard Monte Morris had his salary for the upcoming 2020-21 season guaranteed on Friday, Yahoo Sports’ Keith Smith noted. With his salary guaranteed, the focus shifts to a possible extension, as there appears to be mutual interest in a new deal.

As we relayed earlier this month, Morris — entering his fourth season — is eligible for an extension for the first time in his career. The 25-year-old has been a strong backup point guard for Denver, especially his 2018-19 campaign when he appeared in all 82 games (six starts) while averaging 10.4 points and 3.6 assists. Morris shot nearly 50 percent from the field and 41.4 percent from three that season.

Last season was also a strong showing for the Iowa State product as he produced 9.0 points and 3.5 assists with a strong 45.9 percent field-goal percentage. And even with Facundo Campazzo entering the point guard mix in Denver, the Nuggets are interested in extending Morris, per Mike Singer of the Denver Post.

“I don’t think it’s a secret to anyone,” Morris told Singer earlier this month. “I would love to get an extension here. I love Denver. I love everything from the organization to the coaches all the way down to equipment, to everyone. Me personally, hopefully, if it goes that way. I would love to be in Denver for however long.”

Morris is eligible for an extension starting at up to 120 percent of the league’s estimate average salary. Given his status as a minimum-salary player and the present cap numbers, Morris’ extension could be worth up to $53.76M over four years.

Per the earlier report, while the interest is mutual, a yearly salary in the $6M range is reportedly a “non-starter” for Morris. However, there is no rush to get an extension done as both sides can take talks into the season.