Is the pair of Luka Doncic-Nikola Jokic set to form the next big rivalry in the NBA? The past few NBA seasons have certainly indicated this. Hailing from the European continent isn’t the only similarity between the duo, as each of them leads the offensive efforts for their respective franchises. While Jokic led the Denver Nuggets to the Larry O’Brien trophy in 2023 by averaging over 24.5 ppg, Doncic recently brought the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2011, maintaining 33.9 ppg through the way. Despite their competitive drive, both the Serbian and the Slovenian are good friends off the court. Dirk Nowitzki wishes to utilize this friendship by bringing a big change in their NBA dynamic.

The NBA legend and 2023 Hall of Famer recently made a public appearance at Ljubljana, Slovenia, for the ‘I Feel Slovenia Night of the Dragon.’ During a Q&A session with members of the media, Nowitzki highlighted a possible Luka Doncic-Nikola Jokic team-up in the future! Better yet, he wants this team-up to take place within his old stomping ground: the Dallas Mavericks.

“I’m not sure if that will ever happen, but obviously both are two of the best players in the world. If now the best players in the world,” said Nowitzki. “They both have a great relationship with each other, they respect each other and like each other genuinely.” Since Nowitzki wishes for Luka Doncic to finish his career with the Western Conference team, it will be up to Nikola Jokic to make the big move.

Nikola Jokic is currently playing under a five-year, $276.1 million contract. With only one season having elapsed since the deal went into effect, he will not be available for free agency until after the 2027-28 season, and only if he chooses to not take his player option. Therefore, the Dallas Mavericks will have to play a long time and wait for the player to be available.

While the Western Conference franchise could make a move now, the same would not be wise. A report from Spotrac reveals that the Dallas Mavericks have brought their cap allocation to a whopping $190.97 million. While they have already crossed the luxury tax limit, the figure also puts them very, very close to the second apron limit. According to the latest CBA guidelines, if the franchise does not lower the amount, they could be taxed heavily and face restrictions on trades and acquisitions, taxpayer mid-level exceptions, etc. Taking in Nikola Jokic, and his $51.4 million pay for the 2024-25 season, would only make them drastically worse, from a financial perspective.

Not being able to see the Mavericks and the Nuggets lead scorers don the same colors in an NBA regular season would be a shame. After all, one of the players themselves has contemplated the situation and seems to approve of it.

Does Nikola Jokic want to team up with Luka Doncic?

Even before Dirk Nowitzki had planted the seeds, people were anticipating a possible team-up between the two rivals. After all, while their competitive spirit took hold on the court, the way that they messed with each other during press conferences and played catch during an All-Star game, shouted ‘TEAM-UP.’ Therefore, it didn’t take long for a reporter to put the question in front of the Serbian.

During a post-game presser after an All-Star game, Jokic was questioned, in Crotian, about a Luka Doncic team-up. The player replied in the same language, with his remarks translating to “I don’t know. It’s possible. I don’t want to leave Denver. I like it there, and it’s a great organization. But if Luka gets pissed off in Dallas, he can come.”

Unfortunately, Luka Doncic currently holds great respect for his franchise, and vice versa. After the NBA Finals loss, Dallas Mavericks GM Nico Harrison did not blame Luka at all, and instead stated “I think you’re going to see the best version of him” after the recent season. Therefore, if both players are waiting on who gets dissuaded from their franchise first, it will be one long wait!

Before you go, remember to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Silas Demary Jr.