The possibility of Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic playing together has been a topic of speculation among NBA insiders. The two stars, who hail from the Balkans, share a strong bond off the court.
NBA insider Marc Stein recently discussed the unique relationship between the two superstars on DNVR Sports. Stein described their connection, saying (h/t ClutchPoints, “There’s just a genuine fondness there. They get along great, and of course that leads everyone to wonder if they will ever play together.”
Despite being on different teams, Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks and Jokic of the Denver Nuggets have grown close. According to Stein, their bond is rooted in the fact that they are two of the world’s best players coming from a relatively small region.
“The bond they share comes from being these all-world talents from a very unique and small place on the planet,” Stein noted. “I think they only get closer as pals.”
Fans and analysts alike have begun to wonder if the two might eventually join forces in the NBA. However, Stein was quick to temper expectations about that possibility.
He added, “It’s hard for me to understand or try to imagine a scenario where one team could find a way to get both of them.”
While both players are cornerstones of their respective franchises, their friendship has fueled ongoing speculation about a future team-up. The hypothetical pairing of Doncic and Jokic would undoubtedly create one of the most dynamic duos in basketball history.
Currently, Doncic and Jokic are focused on leading their teams to success. Jokic, the reigning NBA MVP, guided the Denver Nuggets to their first championship in 2023. Meanwhile, Doncic has solidified his role as the face of the Mavericks by leading the team to NBA Finals last season, continuing to build his impressive résumé at just 25 years old.
The chances of either player switching teams remain slim, given their immense value to the Mavericks and Nuggets. However, in today’s player-driven era of free agency, anything is possible.
Jokic, under contract with Denver through the 2027-28 season, is unlikely to leave the Nuggets in the near future. Doncic, on the other hand, has a player option for the 2026-27 season, which could open the door for potential moves down the line.
