Luka Doncic made an immediate impact upon arriving in the NBA, earning Rookie of the Year honors with the Dallas Mavericks. After several standout seasons leading the Texas franchise, the Slovenian star became part of a blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to Dallas, paving the way for Doncic to join the Los Angeles Lakers.
However, the situation between Doncic and the Lakers has grown increasingly complicated, with rumors circulating about a potential early exit. Although the Slovenian star is under contract through the 2026 season, speculation continues to build that he could seek a move away from Los Angeles.
Luka Doncic’s first season with the Lakers
Joining the Los Angeles Lakers is always a significant opportunity, and playing alongside LeBron James only added to Luka Doncic’s motivation to start a new chapter in his career, where they are looking to cut a streak of 5 years without the NBA trophy.
Despite the Lakers’ early playoff exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves, Doncic’s individual performance was outstanding. In his first season wearing the purple and gold, he averaged 28.2 points per game, adding 8.1 rebounds and helping the team with 7.5 assists each game.
However, the team is meant to reach more Playoff rounds, and it was expected that with the duo, LeBron and Doncic, the team could get further in the season. Falling short of those expectations has only fueled uncertainty about the roster’s future and Doncic’s long-term role in Los Angeles.
The connection that could reshape Denver’s roster
Speculation about Doncic’s future has intensified, with Bleacher Report journalist Eric Pincus recently suggesting the Denver Nuggets could be a leading contender for his services. He states in the report that Luka isn’t a player who likes big cities. “The thinking is that Doncic. isn’t the kind of player who prioritizes living in a big city like Los Angeles,” he wrote.
He also talked about the relationship between Jokic and Doncic: “Jokic does have a strong relationship with the Lakers’ star (Luka Doncic.),” and he added, “The Nuggets may not have as many titles as the Lakers, but the basketball attraction between Doncic. and Jokic as teammates works both ways.”
If the Denver Nuggets manage to unite both players, it would provide a significant boost to their roster, bringing together two of the NBA’s premier offensive talents. Players who can provide the team with a good connection inside and outside the court.
For now, one thing is certain: Luka Doncic remains under contract with the Lakers for at least one more season and is hoping to lead the purple and gold to greater success in 2025 and achieve the NBA title next year.
However, speculation is growing that the Slovenian star could explore the possibility of teaming up with his friend, Nikola Jokic, in Denver when he becomes eligible to test the market in 2026.
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