The 2024 NBA All-Star game not only treated fans to high-scoring excitement but also unveiled intriguing glimpses that sparked discussions about the future of the game. Amidst various narratives, the camaraderie between Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic emerged as a standout moment. The two European stars, already engaging in fun, talks, and laughter before the game, hinted at a potential partnership that captured the imagination of fans.
Since then, the dynamic has fueled speculation about the duo donning the same jersey in the NBA. When asked about the possibility of it, Jokic didn’t dismiss the idea, subtly suggesting that it could happen. However, he playfully added a condition–Luka might have to make a move from the Dallas Mavericks. While giving credit to the Denver Nuggets as a franchise, Jokic humorously proposed that if Luka ever gets fed up with Dallas, he could consider switching to Denver, adding an element of lighthearted intrigue to the conversation.
"I don’t want to leave Denver… If Luka gets pissed off in Dallas, he can come."
Nikola Jokic says he'd be open to teaming up with Luka Doncic but only on the Nuggets.
(Translated by @MiroslavCuk ) pic.twitter.com/t8q4sd4f2w
— DNVR Nuggets (@DNVR_Nuggets) February 20, 2024
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Nikola Jokic’s $276 million extension ensures his presence with the Denver Nuggets until the culmination of the 2027-28 season. Simultaneously, Luka Doncic finds himself amid a lucrative five-deal contract worth $215 million, tying him to the Dallas Mavericks until the end of the 2026-27 season. This indicates that any potential collaboration between the two will have to wait, considering the contractual commitments of both players.
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Moreover, since Jokic and Doncic serve as the faces of their respective franchises, their teams will probably retain them in the future. With that, All-Star games serve as the sole platform whenever fans seek a glimpse of two sharing the same jerseys on the floor.
Nikola Jokic and Donic made the most of the All-Star game
Hailing from the old Yugoslavia, Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic’s friendship has seamlessly translated onto the NBA stage, creating heartwarming moments during the All-Star break. The camaraderie between the two, fueled by a shared sense of humor, was evident throughout the festivities.
During one of Luka’s press conferences, Jokic playfully snuck behind him, adding a touch of mischief by pouring water in Doncic’s hoodie.
Estes dois 😂
Jokic 🫶🏼 Doncic pic.twitter.com/mB7TEWKc2D
— LH 🏀🇵🇹 (@LusoHoops) February 17, 2024
In a playful warm-up for the All-Star game, Luka managed to distract Stephen Curry near the basket, allowing Jokic to swoop in from behind and dunk on the unsuspecting Steph.
Luka Doncic setup Steph Curry to get dunked on by Nikola Jokic 💀@FanDuel pic.twitter.com/6Os5OnyOOU
— 𝙉𝘼𝙅 (@najeeadams_) February 19, 2024
Moreover, their fun continued to a game of Knockout, where the two friends couldn’t resist displaying their playful rivalry, competing like brothers while enjoying the game.
Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic are legitimately best friends 😂
(via @SportsonMax)pic.twitter.com/yeBd7yXhYo
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 19, 2024
Their on-court connection glimmered during the All-Star game as well. From Jokic’s childlike cheers for Doncic’s layup to a mesmerizing no-dribble fastbreak, where they passed the ball six times before setting up Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for a dunk.
Esto de Jokic y Doncic😂 pic.twitter.com/DRB1OW67vi
— NBA – Jordi de Mas (@demas6Basket) February 19, 2024
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Not limiting their camaraderie to the court, Jokic and Doncic were spotted sharing jokes with LeBron James on the bench, with James playfully mocking his own age.
« Dans mon 1er All-Star Game, il y avait moi, Wilt Chamberlain, Bob Cousy, Julius Erving. C’était en 1968 … »
LeBron qui troll Jokic et Doncic 😭😭😭
— LeBron France 🇫🇷 (@LeBronFR_) February 19, 2024
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These instances vividly showcase the brotherly bond between Doncic and Jokic. This leaves fans yearning for more opportunities to witness their on-court chemistry, especially throughout the entire season.
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