Lakers aim for Nikola Jokic as potential trade target
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 2:05 AM
Last updated Aug 18, 2026

The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly targeting Nikola Jokic in potential trades or free agency. Despite Jokic expressing a desire to remain with the Denver Nuggets, his refusal to sign a contract extension has raised eyebrows. The Lakers hope that if the Nuggets struggle, it could open a window to acquire Jokic, perhaps enticing him to join forces with fellow star Luka Doncic. Los Angeles may look to move players like Austin Reaves or Walker Kessler as part of any trade package. The situation surrounding Jokic and the Nuggets’ performance in the upcoming season will be closely monitored by the Lakers.
- •Lakers view Nikola Jokic as a dream trade target.
- •Jokic may become an unrestricted free agent next summer.
- •Jokic's refusal to extend his contract raises questions.
- •Lakers might trade Reaves and Kessler for Jokic.
- •Nuggets' performance could influence Jokic's decision.
- 2:05 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers Insider Reveals Nikola Jokic Is Dream Target
"The Los Angeles Lakers apparently view Nikola Jokic as a dream target to go after in trades or free agency. Jokic has shown no desire to leave the Denver Nuggets, but things change fast in today’s NBA landscape. No one expected the Lakers to have any chance of acquiring Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks […] The post Lakers Insider Reveals Nikola Jokic Is Dream Target appeared first on HEAVY.
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