Nikola Jokic Teammate Makes Special Appearance at Lakers Facility Amid Trade Rumors

Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets are currently in their offseason after getting eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs.

Despite being the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference, Anthony Edwards and the Wolves shocked Jokic and company. After that early elimination, some might be wondering what's next for Denver.

Several sources confirmed that Nuggets president Josh Kroenke is now open to reshaping the roster. One potential piece who could soon depart Denver is Peyton Watson.

In a recent Instagram story, Watson posted a photo of himself standing inside the Los Angeles Lakers' training facility. The former Nuggets player attended the Klutch Sports Pro Day at LA's facility.

While nothing has been confirmed yet, there are now rumors that Watson could potentially head to LA.

Watson’s rookie contract is ending, and because he is a restricted free agent, the Nuggets keep the right of first refusal and can match any offer from another team.

The Nuggets could likely re-sign him, then trade him to the team that wants Watson on its roster. Several reports suggest the Lakers had previously expressed interest in Watson before the trade deadline in February.

With LeBron James potentially leaving LA next season, this will open a spot for Watson to flourish next to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Additionally, other teams, like the Chicago Bulls and Brooklyn Nets, have expressed interest in Watson. For now, we'll have to wait and see how Denver will handle the situation.

What's Next For Nikola Jokic and Nuggets?

It's been three years since Nikola Jokic led the Denver Nuggets to their first NBA title in franchise history. There's no denying that the Nuggets have consistently been contenders in the Western Conference since their championship victory. Denver has consistently secured its playoff spot among the top four teams in the conference over the last three seasons.

However, one major concern for the Nuggets is their struggle to replicate the success they had in 2023. In the last few seasons, Denver has made a couple of second-round exits, and its most recent early elimination in the first round this postseason.

Having all that in mind, do the Nuggets need to make changes to their roster? In a recent Bleacher Report article, Nuggets president Josh Kroenke expressed his concerns about the team and admitted that every player on the roster is potentially available for trade, except Jokic.

Jamal Murray, who was once an untouchable player, could now be up for grabs this summer. Given that he has approximately $161.4 million remaining on his contract, the Nuggets might be able to trade Murray for someone who could prove to be a more valuable combo for Jokic.

Aaron Gordon could be another trade piece this offseason. Despite Gordon's efficiency at the power forward position, his consistent injury issues have been detrimental to the team. Kroenke might try to find a more available player. With a fresh three-year extension worth $103.6 million, the Nuggets could secure a couple of valuable pieces in exchange.