NBA BLOCKBUSTER: Jokic “furious” with the Nuggets, Lakers immediately step in to recruit the superstar!?

The Denver Nuggets are heading into one of their most critical offseasons in recent memory. After falling short of expectations in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, losing in Game 7 to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Semifinals, the pressure is mounting—and no storyline is hotter than the speculation around Nikola Jokic’s future with the franchise.

Although the two-time NBA champion and three-time MVP has shown nothing but loyalty to the team that drafted him, recent events have fans and insiders alike questioning whether Jokic could leave the Nuggets, especially as the Los Angeles Lakers emerge as a surprising frontrunner for his services.

So how did it come to this?

Let’s break down what’s gone wrong for Denver, the rising concern over their roster construction, why Jokic could potentially join the Lakers, and why this offseason could define the next phase of the Nuggets’ championship window—or signal its closing.

The Nuggets Are Losing Their Core—and It’s Showing

Since winning the 2023 NBA Championship, the Nuggets have failed to maintain the core roster that brought them success. Key role players such as Bruce Brown, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Jeff Green have all departed the team, and the Nuggets have failed to replace them with equal talent.

It’s not just a matter of losing bodies—it’s about chemistry, depth, and veteran leadership, all of which were vital during their title run.

Despite having an elite starting five, Denver’s bench is arguably one of the weakest among playoff teams. Head coach Michael Malone, who was dismissed after their recent playoff exit, struggled to get consistent production from the second unit, and the Nuggets’ margin for error evaporated in critical moments.

The result? An early playoff exit, with their superstar center voicing doubt about the team’s ability to win with the current roster.

Nikola Jokic’s Telling Post-Game Comments

Following the devastating Game 7 loss to the Thunder, Jokic was asked whether he believed the Nuggets could win the Larry O’Brien Trophy with the same roster.

His response was brutally honest:

“We didn’t, so obviously we can’t. If we could, we would win it. So I don’t believe in those ‘if’ statements. We had an opportunity—we didn’t win it. So, I think we can’t.”

Coming from Nikola Jokic, a player known for his humility, professionalism, and team-first mentality, these words sent shockwaves through the NBA community. For the first time, it seemed like the two-time Finals MVP was losing faith in the organization’s direction.

And that’s a huge problem for Denver.

Jokic Isn’t One to Complain—But Denver’s Complacency Could Push Him Away

Throughout his career, Nikola Jokic has never publicly complained about the Nuggets’ roster decisions. Whether he was sharing the court with rising stars or fringe rotation players, Jokic played the same way: team-oriented, selfless, and elite.

But the Nuggets’ inability to retain key contributors or replace them with quality bench assets is starting to wear thin. They’ve sat idle during multiple offseasons, while teams like the Thunder, Timberwolves, and Lakers made bold moves to improve.

In 2023, they lost Bruce Brown, a versatile two-way threat who was pivotal in their championship run. In 2024, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, a respected 3-and-D guard, walked. And now, in 2025, the Nuggets enter another offseason with more questions than answers.

Jamal Murray’s Uncertain Future & Michael Porter Jr. Trade Rumors

Two other key concerns surround the future of Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., both of whom have fluctuated in their reliability due to injuries and inconsistent performances.

There’s chatter that Porter Jr. could be moved in a blockbuster trade this summer, especially as the Nuggets look to reshape their roster around Jokic. While Porter’s offensive talent is undeniable, his defensive lapses and durability continue to be concerns.

As for Jamal Murray, the injury-plagued guard has struggled to stay healthy for a full season. Despite his clutch playoff pedigree, the Nuggets may need to reassess his long-term role, particularly if they hope to maximize Jokic’s remaining prime years.

Are the Lakers the Favorites to Land Nikola Jokic?

Now here comes the bombshell: According to Heavy.com, the Los Angeles Lakers are the favorites to land Nikola Jokic—should he become available in trade talks or demand a new start.

While this is speculative at best, the idea isn’t as far-fetched as it once seemed.

With LeBron James nearing retirement and the Lakers seeking their next foundational superstar, Jokic fits the bill. He’d pair well with Anthony Davis, who could shift to power forward and play off Jokic’s creative offense. But the biggest link? Luka Doncic.

The Luka Doncic Connection

Earlier this season, the NBA world was stunned when Luka Doncic was traded to the Lakers from the Dallas Mavericks. The Slovenian superstar has been open about his close friendship with Jokic, and the two have shared mutual respect and admiration for years.

If there’s one person who could lure Jokic to Los Angeles, it’s Luka Doncic. The idea of pairing two of Europe’s greatest players in NBA history on the same team would make the Lakers instant championship favorites—and a marketing dream.

Jokic has shown no signs of seeking a “superteam” situation, but if Denver continues to stagnate, the opportunity to play with Luka, win more rings, and extend his legacy could become too tempting to ignore.

The Lakers Are Looking for a Big—And Jokic Would Be the Dream

With LeBron James aging and the Lakers’ front office exploring options to build around Doncic and Davis, it’s no secret they’re searching for a center who can facilitate, score, and elevate the offense.

Nikola Jokic fits that description perfectly. He’s arguably the best passing big man in league history, a triple-double machine, and the most offensively efficient player on the planet.

If he were to hit the trade market, expect the Lakers to go all in—offering draft picks, young talent, and cap flexibility to make the move happen.

Is Jokic Really Leaving Denver? Not Likely—Yet

While the rumors are growing louder, the reality remains this: Nikola Jokic is still under contract, and there’s no concrete indication that he has asked out—or intends to.

But for the first time in his career, there’s a visible crack in the foundation.

If the Nuggets fail to upgrade their roster this summer, don’t be surprised if Jokic starts to explore his options in the coming years. He’s given the franchise everything, but his prime won’t last forever, and his window to compete for more championships is narrowing.

Denver Must Act Now—or Risk Losing Their Greatest Player

The pressure is officially on for Denver’s front office. This offseason can’t be about marginal changes—it has to be about aggressive moves that put the Nuggets back into championship contention.

That could mean:

• Trading Michael Porter Jr. for depth and defense

• Packaging draft picks for veteran shooters or two-way wings

• Signing reliable bench scorers or backup guards

• Evaluating the coaching hire after Mike Malone’s departure

If they fail to act, Jokic could follow the path of other superstars who remained loyal—until they couldn’t anymore.

Conclusion: The Ball Is in Denver’s Court

Nikola Jokic isn’t just Denver’s best player—he’s their identity. Losing him would be catastrophic, both on and off the court.

While a trade to the Los Angeles Lakers isn’t imminent, the rumors are rooted in real concerns. The Nuggets have grown complacent, and now they risk alienating one of the most selfless superstars the NBA has ever seen.

This offseason must be a turning point. If not, the whispers about Jokic’s future will turn into headlines—and the Lakers will be waiting.