The Los Angeles Lakers may not be finished reshaping their roster around Luka Dončić, and the next reported target could be one of the most ambitious acquisitions in franchise history: Denver Nuggets superstar center Nikola Jokić. Multiple NBA reports and insiders suggest that once the Lakers’ ownership situation is resolved, the organization’s focus will be squarely on attempting to lure the three-time MVP away from Denver. The speculation comes as Los Angeles has already moved on from several role players, signaling what many describe as a full makeover built around Dončić. The Lakers have parted ways with players such as Jackson Hayes, while other free agents like Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart, Deandre Ayton, and Luke Kennard have moved to new teams.
The departures have reinforced the impression that the franchise is aggressively rebuilding around its young Slovenian star rather than maintaining the previous roster structure. The Jokić rumors have gained traction in recent weeks, with NBA insider Anthony F. Irwin writing that once the Lakers get their ownership situation figured out, much of the organization’s attention will be directed toward Denver. Another report from Lake Show’s Life, citing Tyler Watts, suggested the odds of landing Jokić have improved after the Nuggets traded Peyton Watson to the Cleveland Cavaliers for what was described as virtually nothing.
Jokić has not signed a long-term extension with Denver, and he holds a player option for the 2028 season. While he has publicly stated that he plans to sign an extension with the Nuggets next summer, that statement was made before an offseason that many have characterized as a major disappointment. The Nuggets have maintained that Jokić wants to be a Nugget for life, and financially, Denver can offer him a massive contract, potentially in the range of $359 million over five years if he waits until 2027. The financial advantage and Jokić’s stated loyalty make a trade appear unlikely in the immediate future.
However, speculation continues because of the center’s extraordinary production. Last season, Jokić averaged 27. 7 points, 13 rebounds, 10. 7 assists, 1.
4 steals, and 0. 8 blocks per game on 56% shooting. He led the NBA in assists while playing the center position, a feat that has been widely described as absurd and unprecedented for a big man. The potential pairing of Dončić and Jokić is being described by observers as potentially the most terrifying superstar duo in the NBA.
Both players are elite creators and playmakers, and analysts suggest there would be no comfortable defensive answer if a team had to guard both simultaneously. The two players also share a well-documented friendship and cultural familiarity. They have been seen interacting playfully at All-Star games and share international roots, with both coming from the same region of the world. Some commentators believe this relationship could give the Lakers an advantage in any future pursuit.
If Denver were to open the door, the Lakers could potentially assemble a package that includes Austin Reaves and other assets. The Lakers have historically built championship teams through trades and free agency rather than the draft, and analysts note that the franchise rarely hesitates when a superstar becomes available. The Nuggets, however, still control the situation. Jokić is under contract, and Denver would demand a fortune in any trade scenario.
The Lakers cannot force a deal unless Jokić himself decides he wants to leave. For now, the possibility remains speculation rather than a done deal. Jokić has repeatedly indicated his desire to stay in Denver, and the Nuggets have given no indication they are willing to part with their franchise cornerstone. The scenario would only become realistic if the Nuggets struggle again this season, if the roster continues to deteriorate, or if another disappointing playoff run convinces Jokić that his championship window is closing.
If any of those conditions are met, the Lakers would reportedly be waiting. Analysts have also noted that the prospect of Jokić winning a championship in Los Angeles is particularly unsettling for some fans of LeBron James, adding a layer of tension to the speculation. The situation remains fluid, and the Lakers cannot act until their ownership questions are resolved. Reports indicate the franchise is going through turbulent times with investors entering and exiting, creating an air of uncertainty that looms over the entire organization.
Despite the internal distractions, the Lakers have not lost sight of their broader mission. Once the ownership drama settles, the pursuit of another superstar is expected to become a priority. Whether that pursuit ends with Jokić in Los Angeles remains to be seen. What is clear is that the Lakers are actively rebuilding around Dončić, and the organization is not limiting its ambitions.
The Nuggets still hold all the cards for now. Jokić wants to stay in Denver, the team can offer him the richest contract, and the Lakers would need both a willingness from the player and a trade framework with the Nuggets to pull off the move. The possibility is being watched closely across the league.
If Denver ever opens that door, the Lakers are reportedly ready to kick it down.
