Thu Jul 03 02:30:00 UTC 2025: **Lakers Eye Nikola Jokić: Could the Lakers Make Another Blockbuster Trade?**
**Los Angeles, CA** – Fresh off acquiring Luka Dončić, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly setting their sights on an even more ambitious target: Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokić. Sources indicate the Lakers are strategically positioning themselves to potentially lure the three-time MVP to Los Angeles in 2027, when he could become an unrestricted free agent.
While LeBron James remains a Laker for now, the team’s recent moves suggest a shift towards building around Dončić long-term. This includes potentially letting James’ contract expire in 2026. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reports that the Lakers exercised discipline in their negotiations with Dorian Finney-Smith to preserve cap space for 2027.
The Lakers’ strategy hinges on the hope that Jokić might become disillusioned with the Nuggets and seek a change of scenery. Sources speculate that the existing bond between Jokić and Dončić could be a key factor in persuading him to join the Lakers.
To make room for Jokić, the Lakers might be willing to leverage cap room in 2027, offer a package of young players and draft compensation to the Nuggets, and restructure their existing roster. However, such a scenario depends on the Nuggets faltering and Jokić requesting a trade.
The Denver Nuggets seem to be improving this offseason by acquiring Cam Johnson, Jonas Valančiūnas, Bruce Brown Jr. and Tim Hardaway Jr. The Lakers added Jake LaRavia and are acquiring the draft rights to Adou Thiero (No. 36) to replace Finney-Smith.
While considered a long shot, such a move would be classic Lakers, who have a history of landing top talent, including Anthony Davis, LeBron James, Pau Gasol, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Wilt Chamberlain. If Jokić proves unattainable, sources say the Lakers might shift their focus to another superstar, such as Giannis Antetokounmpo.
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