Nikola Jokic Linked To Toronto Raptors As Potential Trade Target
Raptors are lurking as potential Nikola Jokic landing spot if he's traded from the Nuggets.
As the Toronto Raptors prepare for a new season, whispers of a potential trade for Nikola Jokic have surfaced. After a solid fifth-place finish last year, the Raptors are eyeing a top-four finish in the upcoming 2026-27 NBA season and beyond. While Jokic has yet to sign his extension with the Denver Nuggets, he has developed a close relationship with Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic, who is among only three European coaches in the league. Rajakovic has praised Jokic highly in interviews, indicating a mutual respect between the two.
Jokic, who has been with the Nuggets for his entire 11-year NBA career, has consistently delivered impressive stats as a playmaker, ball handler, and scorer. However, the 31-year-old has a player option for a $62.8 million salary in 2027-28, giving him the option to leave Denver if he feels the team isn't pushing for a championship.
If that were to happen, Jokic could become a target for most teams in the league. Yet, the Raptors stand out as an ideal fit, as they have coach Rajakovic by his side, and Jokic could join a star-studded roster alongside Kawhi Leonard, Scottie Barnes, and Jakob Poeltl. Moreover, playing for a non-American team would be a fitting destination for Jokic, a top European basketball player.
Ultimately, the future of Jokic's career remains uncertain, but the Raptors are in a strong position to make a move for the superstar if the opportunity arises.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
