A recent luxury boat excursion has ignited new rumors that two of the NBA’s most iconic players might ultimately link up in Denver, reports BasketNews.
In a Saturday Instagram post, Misko Raznatovic, the influential agent of Nuggets star Nikola Jokic, shared several photos alongside LeBron James and his longtime friend and business partner, Maverick Carter, enjoying the sun in St. Tropez.
Raznatovic added a cryptic but suggestive caption: “The summer of 2025 is the perfect time to make big plans for the fall of 2026! @kingjames @mavcarter.”
That one sentence has sent shockwaves through the NBA community, as it hints at something larger than just a casual meetup.
The post arrives as chatter intensifies about James’ future, especially after he opted into his $52.6 million player option for the upcoming season. Though that move keeps him with the Lakers for now, it also leaves the door wide open for an eventual departure.
James’ agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, emphasized that the 40-year-old superstar still has a strong desire to contend for championships, and his decision would be influenced by how the Lakers approach their roster this offseason.
While teams like the Cavaliers, Mavericks, Warriors, and Knicks have been floated as potential destinations, the Nuggets have entered the conversation as a dark horse – mainly because of the tantalizing idea of pairing LeBron with Jokic.
Coming off another All-NBA Second Team nod, James still possesses elite skills that could push Denver over the top as a title favorite. That said, salary cap constraints pose a significant hurdle.
With Jokic set to earn $59 million and Jamal Murray $50.1 million in 2026–27, and additional hefty commitments to Aaron Gordon ($32 million) and Cameron Johnson ($23 million), Denver has little room to add another massive contract.
However, insiders speculate that James, in pursuit of a fifth championship ring, might be willing to sign for less money if it means competing alongside Jokic and the reigning champions.
Many around the league believe this could be James’ swan song with the Lakers. The team appears to be reorienting its plans around Luka Doncic while freeing up cap space for the summer of 2027.
Since arriving in Los Angeles in 2018, LeBron has earned All-NBA honors every season and delivered a title in 2020 – making his potential exit a truly era-defining shift.
Nikola Jokic's agent hints at the appeal of pairing with Jokic with LeBron James in 2026. Details: https://t.co/ULtJ4DCGbY
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) July 27, 2025
