Brian Windhorst recently sparked intriguing rumors when he highlighted a close bond forming between two of the league’s biggest stars: Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks and Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets. During a segment on “The Hoop Collective” podcast, Windhorst mentioned:
“I live in this world where literally people in the NBA are calling me up and saying, ‘Hey when you were with Team USA, who did you notice was buddying up?’ And I would say, ‘The buddies I’ve been noticing this summer are Luka and Jokic.’” (33:00)
This revelation has naturally fueled speculation about the possibility of the two joining forces in the NBA, a prospect that would undoubtedly send shockwaves through the league. However, despite the excitement surrounding this potential pairing, the logistics of such a union remain complicated.
Both Jokic and Doncic are currently locked into long-term contracts with their respective teams. Jokic, a three-time MVP, is under contract with the Nuggets through the 2026-27 season, with a player option for the 2027-28 season. Doncic, who led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals in the 2023-24 season, is similarly tied to Dallas until the 2025-26 season, also holding a player option for the following year.
The possibility of these two teaming up before their contracts expire seems remote. For a trade to materialize, either team would need to make an unprecedented offer, likely involving multiple first-round picks and key players, a scenario neither franchise seems willing to entertain. Additionally, the financial and competitive stakes are high, as both Dallas and Denver are heavily invested in their superstars.
Despite the hurdles, the idea of Doncic and Jokic sharing the court remains a tantalizing fantasy for NBA fans. Their shared European background and complementary playing styles could create a dynamic duo capable of dominating the league. For now, though, this partnership remains a distant possibility, perhaps something that could only come to fruition years down the line when both players approach free agency.
In the meantime, the growing friendship between Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic is something to watch, especially as they continue to compete against each other in the NBA. Whether or not they ever become teammates, their bond adds another layer of intrigue to the league’s narrative.
This Pairing Would Only Be Possible Through Free Agency
The possibility of Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic teaming up on the same NBA team is a tantalizing prospect for basketball fans. However, the only realistic path for this pairing to happen would be through free agency, specifically after the 2026-27 season. By then, both Doncic and Jokic will have the opportunity to become free agents, and this period could present a unique window for them to join forces.
Currently, both players are locked into long-term contracts with their respective teams—the Dallas Mavericks and the Denver Nuggets. These franchises have built their rosters around these superstars, making it nearly impossible for either team to afford trading for the other without dismantling their core or mortgaging their future with draft picks. The financial and strategic implications make a trade scenario highly unlikely.
However, when the 2026-27 free agency period arrives, Doncic will be 28, and Jokic will be 32. If either player has not yet captured an NBA title by that time, or if their teams have declined in competitiveness, the idea of joining forces might become increasingly appealing. At this stage in their careers, both players will be in their prime, with Doncic entering the peak years of his career and Jokic still capable of playing at an elite level.
Adding to the intrigue is the fact that Giannis Antetokounmpo, another European superstar, could also become a free agent after the 2026-27 season. If the Milwaukee Bucks struggle to remain contenders, Giannis might explore new opportunities. The notion of Doncic, Jokic, and Giannis teaming up to form a “European Big 3” could redefine the NBA landscape.
Such a superteam would not only dominate on the court but also symbolize the increasing global influence on the NBA, with three of the league’s brightest stars hailing from Europe.
While this scenario remains speculative, it highlights the ever-evolving dynamics of the NBA and the potential for seismic shifts in the league’s power structure. Fans can only imagine the impact this trio could have, both in terms of championships and the global popularity of the sport.
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