NBA Earthquake: LeBron James Joins Jokic in Shocking Nuggets Superteam Blockbuster
In what could become one of the most seismic trades in NBA history, the Denver Nuggets have reportedly acquired LeBron James from the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster three-team deal that also involves the Sacramento Kings. The trade would drastically reshape the balance of power in the Western Conference and send shockwaves throughout the league.
According to the proposal, the Nuggets receive LeBron James, Gabe Vincent, and Jonas Valanciunas. The Kings land Jamal Murray, Zeke Nnaji, and Dario Saric. Meanwhile, the Lakers walk away with DeMar DeRozan, Malik Monk, Julian Strawther, Isaac Jones, a 2029 first-round pick, a 2031 first-round pick, a 2031 pick swap, and a 2028 second-round pick.
James opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season, signaling a commitment to staying on the court but not necessarily in Los Angeles. With a no-trade clause built into his contract, James has full control over where he lands — and Denver makes plenty of sense. Teaming up with reigning Finals MVP Nikola Jokić could form the most cerebral and efficient star duo in modern NBA history. The Nuggets already boast championship experience, and adding James’ leadership, playmaking, and clutch gene could elevate them to favorites in the Western Conference, if not the entire league.
For Denver, moving on from Jamal Murray is a steep price, but reports have already indicated the franchise’s openness to exploring trade scenarios involving their star guard. With James in the fold and Jokic orchestrating the offense, Denver could pivot toward a more dynamic, positionless style of basketball.
The Lakers, meanwhile, would enter a new era with a promising collection of picks and players. DeRozan and Monk provide immediate offensive punch and familiarity with the Lakers’ system, while young pieces like Strawther and Jones add depth. Most importantly, L.A. secures valuable draft capital, giving them flexibility to retool for the post-LeBron era.
Sacramento’s angle is equally compelling. Acquiring Murray gives the Kings a playoff-proven scoring guard to pair with De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, while Saric and Nnaji offer rotation depth.
If James is serious about contending for another ring before retirement — and the Lakers are open to a graceful exit strategy — this trade could serve everyone’s best interest, changing the NBA landscape overnight.
