The Los Angeles Lakers have a history of pulling off blockbuster moves that reshape the NBA landscape, and speculation is swirling that Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokić could be their next target. With a $270 million contract and a resume that includes three MVP awards, Jokić is the cornerstone of the Nuggets’ championship aspirations. However, the Lakers’ recent acquisition of Luka Dončić and their relentless pursuit of elite talent have sparked discussions about whether they could orchestrate a move to pry Jokić away from Denver, creating a nightmare scenario for the Nuggets and their fans.

The Lakers’ Blockbuster Blueprint

On February 2, 2025, the Lakers stunned the league by acquiring Luka Dončić, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. This bold trade demonstrated the Lakers’ willingness to take risks to secure generational talent, even under new ownership. Dončić, a five-time All-NBA First Team selection, has quickly become the centerpiece of the Lakers’ championship ambitions. His presence has fueled speculation about the Lakers’ next move, with fans and analysts wondering if another superstar, such as Jokić or Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, could join him in Los Angeles.

The Lakers’ history of landing marquee players— from LeBron James to Anthony Davis—shows they are unafraid to pursue game-changing deals. While their recent trade depleted some of their assets, the allure of playing alongside Dončić in the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles could be a powerful draw for a player of Jokić’s caliber.

Why Jokić? The Lakers’ Dream Target

NBA insider Dan Woike of The Athletic recently weighed in on the Lakers’ potential targets, stating that Jokić would be the organization’s top choice over Giannis if they had to pick. “I think the organization would reconsider its stance on the viability of three max players. If I had to pick, it’d be Jokić,” Woike said. Jokić’s unique skill set as a playmaking big man, combined with his ability to elevate teammates, makes him an ideal fit alongside Dončić. A Dončić-Jokić pairing could form one of the most dynamic duos in NBA history, capable of dominating both ends of the floor.

Jokić, a two-time NBA champion and three-time MVP, is under contract with the Nuggets through the 2027-28 season, with a player option for the final year. His $270 million deal reflects his status as one of the league’s premier talents. However, the Lakers’ front office is known for thinking long-term, and they could be laying the groundwork for a move in the coming years, particularly if Jokić becomes available via trade or free agency.

The Trade Hurdles: A Steep Climb

Despite the Lakers’ ambitions, acquiring Jokić via trade remains a long shot. Woike was blunt about the challenges, stating, “No, not really,” when asked about the likelihood of a Jokić-to-Lakers deal. He outlined several obstacles:

Limited Assets: The Lakers’ trade package, depleted after the Dončić deal, would struggle to compete with offers from other teams.

Market Dynamics: A trade for Jokić would require a “severely depressed market,” with other teams discouraged from bidding.

Player Leverage: Jokić would need to make it clear he would only sign with the Lakers in free agency, forcing Denver’s hand.

The Nuggets, fresh off a 2023 championship and consistent playoff contention, have little incentive to move Jokić unless he demands a trade. Denver’s front office views him as the heart of their franchise, and any trade discussions would likely demand an unprecedented haul of players, picks, and cap flexibility—something the Lakers currently lack.

The 2027 Free Agency Window

While a trade seems unlikely in the near term, Woike pointed to 2027 as a potential turning point. Jokić’s player option in the 2027-28 season gives him the opportunity to test free agency, and the Lakers could position themselves as a prime destination. By then, Dončić is expected to be in his prime, potentially leading the Lakers to deep playoff runs. A strong postseason performance in the 2025-26 season could solidify Los Angeles as an attractive landing spot for Jokić, especially if the Nuggets face challenges in maintaining their championship window.

The Lakers’ 2024-25 season ended with a 50-32 record, good for third in the Western Conference, but a first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves exposed their need for another elite talent. With Dončić as the foundation, the Lakers are building a roster designed to contend for titles in the late 2020s, and Jokić could be the missing piece.

Denver’s Nightmare Unfolds

For Nuggets fans, the thought of Jokić donning the purple and gold is a nightmare scenario. Losing their franchise cornerstone to a storied rival like the Lakers would be a devastating blow, both on the court and emotionally. Jokić’s loyalty to Denver has been unwavering, but the NBA is a business, and the allure of a new challenge in Los Angeles—paired with the chance to play alongside Dončić—could test his commitment.

The Lakers’ pursuit of Jokić also carries broader implications for the Western Conference. A Dončić-Jokić duo would shift the balance of power, potentially overshadowing teams like the Nuggets, Timberwolves, and Oklahoma City Thunder. Denver would face the daunting task of rebuilding around younger players like Jamal Murray or Christian Braun, all while watching Jokić chase championships elsewhere.

What’s Next for the Lakers?

The Lakers’ front office is playing the long game. While a Jokić trade may be out of reach for now, their focus is on maximizing Dončić’s prime and building a roster that can attract superstars in free agency. The 2027 offseason looms as a critical juncture, with Jokić and Giannis potentially hitting the market. In the meantime, the Lakers will aim to improve their playoff performance, leveraging Dončić’s brilliance to prove they are a championship-caliber destination.

For now, Nuggets fans can breathe a sigh of relief, as Jokić remains firmly entrenched in Denver. But the Lakers’ history of pulling off the impossible means this nightmare scenario can’t be entirely ruled out. If Los Angeles finds a way to land the $270 million superstar, the NBA world could witness the birth of a new dynasty—and the end of Denver’s golden era.