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Nuggets A Threat To Steal Lakers New Toy Away In Near Future

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Los Angeles Lakers point guard Luka Doncic talks to Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic

The Los Angeles Lakers could lose Luka Doncic as quickly as they snatched him up — and no, it won’t be because of Mark Williams failing his physical.

Lakers Could Lose New Toy Luka Doncic In Near Future

As many have reported by now, Doncic is no longer eligible for the supermax contract extension. Obviously, the five-time All-Star could have opted to decline the deal. Nonetheless, it would be difficult for anyone to turn down a $345 million contract, especially when the fan base treats them like a demigod. Thus, it was a foregone conclusion that Doncic would sign the supermax when the offer was presented.

Now that that option is off the table, his most lucrative option is to sign a 2+1 extension with the Lakers this offseason, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks. This would allow him to sign a five-year, $418 million contract in 2028, when he’ll have 10 years of service. If you’re Doncic, that probably sounds better than popping open an ice cold brewski.

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There’s just one problem.

Nuggets, Nikola Jokic Loom

Doncic has a player option in his contract for the 2026-27 season. If he signed the 2+1 extension Marks suggests, his player option would move back to the 2028-29 season. And wouldn’t you know it, Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic‘s contract is set to expire in 2027-28. Thus, Doncic and Jokic could both become free agents in 2028.

With that in mind, Doncic has admired LeBron James from afar for a very long time. However, the fraternal bond he shares with Jokic eclipses even that idolatry. It’s well-known that Doncic and Jokic would love to play on the same team. So, even if James were to decide to extend his career past 2026, when he’s expected to retire, the Slovenian might prefer to play alongside his Serbian brother. Considering that Jokic will still be in his prime, that possibility is even more realistic.

It doesn’t hurt that the Nuggets are just fine with their franchise star not being cut like an action figure, with Doncic’s nutritional and workout habits have come into question.

How Soon Is Too Soon?

Doncic doesn’t have to wait until 2028 to team up with Jokic. These days, all it would take is for him to make a trade request. That could happen as early as this offseason.

Should he make that decision, it might be Jamal Murray who’s leading the post-LeBron Lakers rather than him. If Los Angeles wants more of an offensive engine, Trae Young could be available (again), with Murray heading to the Atlanta Hawks in his place. Maybe this all sounds like a pipe dream, but crazier trades have happened.

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The post Nuggets A Threat To Steal Lakers New Toy Away In Near Future appeared first on Last Word On Basketball.