The Los Angeles Lakers have been unusually quiet this offseason. No blockbuster trades. No high-profile free-agent splash. No dramatic overhauls. But what if that silence is part of a much louder plan—a long game aimed at landing the best player in the world: Nikola Jokić?

Multiple league sources have hinted that the Lakers are preserving cap space for 2027, when Jokić becomes an unrestricted free agent. While nothing is confirmed publicly, a recent wave of reports has linked the two-time MVP to a potential future in Hollywood—a move that could shake the NBA to its core.

If you’re wondering why the Lakers are standing pat while other contenders reload, the answer might be simple: they’re waiting for Jokić.

The 2025 Offseason: Stillness With Purpose

Many fans questioned the Lakers’ conservative approach this summer. In a league where teams scramble to compete against Boston, Denver, and Oklahoma City, Los Angeles barely budged. The team extended role players, declined to overpay for short-term upgrades, and didn’t chase big names despite glaring holes.

🧐 “Everything about the Lakers’ 2025 offseason movement—or lack of it—starts to make more sense when viewed through the lens of a Jokić pursuit,” said one plugged-in NBA reporter.

The Lakers are clearly preparing for a max-salary free-agent window in 2027. LeBron James will likely be retired by then. Anthony Davis will be aging out of his prime. The franchise will need a new identity. Who better to build around than Nikola Jokić, a player capable of redefining an entire offensive system?

The Doncic-Jokić Friendship Factor

One of the biggest unspoken elements in this story is Jokić’s close friendship with Luka Dončić. The two have long been close off the court, bonding over their shared Balkan roots, sense of humor, and genius-level basketball IQ.

🔗 Rumors have been quietly building around the idea that Jokić and Dončić have discussed one day teaming up—possibly in a big market like Los Angeles.

While it may sound like wishful thinking, sources close to both camps say the concept of forming a European super-duo has been floated before. The Lakers, always alert to superstar whispers, are reportedly positioning themselves as the only franchise with the glamour, cap space, and organizational structure to pull it off.

Josh Kroenke’s Worrying Admission

Even more intriguing was a subtle but telling statement from Denver Nuggets president Josh Kroenke, who recently acknowledged that:

🗣️ “You never want to imagine Nikola leaving, but in today’s league, you prepare for anything.”

That’s not a denial. That’s a crack in the foundation, one that suggests even Denver’s front office knows this isn’t a lock.

Adding to the intrigue, Jokić recently declined a contract extension offer from the Nuggets—despite being eligible for a sizable raise. The decision raised eyebrows and fueled the theory that he may be eyeing the open market in 2027.

It’s worth noting that Jokić has always been non-traditional. He’s loyal, yes—but not blindly so. He’s made it clear he values family, peace, and basketball joy. If the Denver project grows stale, or the Lakers offer a better chance to compete (and enjoy life), he may not hesitate to make a shocking move.

What Would the Lakers Look Like With Jokić?

Imagine this: it’s 2027. LeBron is retired. The Lakers are flush with cap space. Jokić signs a four-year deal, instantly becoming the new face of the franchise. Now imagine Luka Dončić joins a year later.

Jokić in the middle, orchestrating like a 7-foot point guard

Dončić at the wing, blending isolation scoring with masterful passing

A core of young shooters and defenders surrounding them

Hollywood spotlight, national endorsements, global appeal

It wouldn’t just be a superteam. It would be an international revolution—two of Europe’s greatest players joining forces in the NBA’s most glamorous city.

Why Jokić Could Leave Denver

Let’s be clear: Jokić is beloved in Denver. He delivered the city its first NBA title, has a strong relationship with head coach Michael Malone, and is revered by the fanbase. But even loyalty has its limits.

Here’s why a departure is not out of the question:

Roster stagnation: Denver has struggled to build beyond its starting five.

Luxury tax concerns: Ownership may not be willing to keep paying deep luxury taxes to stay competitive.

Personal goals: Jokić has hinted that he values legacy, lifestyle, and freedom more than just staying in one place forever.

Hollywood allure: For a player who avoids the limelight, Los Angeles still offers the best of both worlds—global branding with the option of quiet luxury living.

Lakers’ Strategy: Playing the Long Game

The Lakers know that elite players aren’t always swayed by desperation pitches. Instead, they’re creating the conditions to make Jokić come to them.

Cap flexibility: No long-term deals that could block a 2027 signing.

Talent scouting: They’re quietly stockpiling versatile, low-cost role players who could complement a Jokić-led team.

Cultural reboot: Post-LeBron, the Lakers want to reset their identity around team-first basketball, not just star power.

This plan mirrors what they did in the early 2010s—clearing space, staying patient, and eventually luring LeBron in 2018. Now, it’s Jokić’s turn.

Could Luka Follow?

If Jokić makes the move to L.A., the floodgates could open. Luka Dončić becomes a free agent in 2028. Should things sour in Dallas—and history suggests they might—the Lakers would have the chance to bring the two together.

It’s not just a fantasy. It’s a plausible timeline the Lakers are working toward, piece by piece.

Conclusion: A Quiet Storm Is Brewing in L.A.

While the rest of the league chases short-term success, the Lakers are playing chess. Every non-move, every declined trade, every quiet offseason is part of a master strategy to land Nikola Jokić in 2027.

From his friendship with Luka Dončić to Josh Kroenke’s nervous comments and his own rejection of an extension, the signs are there: Jokić is keeping his options open. And Los Angeles is watching.

The next two years may define the next decade of the NBA. And if the whispers turn into action, the Lakers could be building the most intelligent, skilled, and international superteam the league has ever seen.

Because in the NBA, patience isn’t passive. It’s powerful. And the Lakers might be about to make their biggest move yet—by waiting.