Lakers eyeing Nuggets star as potential Luka Doncic running mate..
In a bold move that could reshape the NBA landscape, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly setting their sights on Denver Nuggets star Jamal Murray as a potential backcourt partner for Luka Dončić. With the franchise aiming to return to championship contention and capitalize on Dončić’s generational talent, acquiring a proven playoff performer like Murray could be a transformative step.
Lakers’ Ambitious Vision
Since adding Dončić via a high-profile trade earlier in the offseason, the Lakers have been aggressive in building a roster that can complement his elite playmaking and scoring. Sources close to the organization say team executives believe pairing Dončić with another dynamic guard could relieve pressure on him while creating one of the most potent offensive duos in the league.Jamal Murray, a key figure in the Denver Nuggets’ 2023 championship run, has emerged as a top target. The Canadian guard’s combination of clutch scoring, ball-handling, and ability to thrive in big moments makes him a dream fit alongside Dončić. His playoff averages—nearly 27 points per game in 2023—underscore his ability to shine when it matters most.
Denver’s DilemmaFor the Nuggets, moving Murray would be a seismic shift. However, with contract extensions looming and a tight salary cap situation, Denver could be forced to make tough decisions. While Nikola Jokić remains untouchable, the front office may entertain offers for Murray if it allows them to replenish depth and secure long-term flexibility.
The Lakers are rumored to be willing to part with multiple first-round picks, expiring contracts, and possibly rising young players like Austin Reaves or Rui Hachimura to make a Murray deal work. Including veteran contracts such as D’Angelo Russell’s could also help match salaries.
Building a Backcourt Powerhouse
From a basketball perspective, the Dončić-Murray pairing presents tantalizing possibilities. Dončić, a high-usage playmaker who thrives with the ball in his hands, would benefit immensely from sharing the floor with another elite creator. Murray can play on or off the ball, shoot from deep, and create his own shot in crunch time. Their combined offensive gravity would stretch opposing defenses to the breaking point.
Moreover, with Dončić often drawing double-teams, Murray would have ample opportunities to punish defenders from mid-range and beyond the arc. Defensively, both players have had their lapses, but with a retooled supporting cast anchored by Anthony Davis, the Lakers believe they can cover any weaknesses.Strategic Gamble or Championship Blueprint?Of course, adding another max-salary player like Murray doesn’t come without risks. Injuries have plagued Murray at times, including his ACL tear that sidelined him during the 2021-22 season. Additionally, fitting three stars under the salary cap—Dončić, Davis, and Murray—would require careful financial maneuvering and likely mean sacrificing depth.Still, the Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka, appears undeterred. After a second-round playoff exit last season, and with LeBron James now retired or significantly reduced in role, the organization knows the time is now to build a new core around Dončić.What’s Next?As trade talks heat up around the league, the Lakers remain one of the most aggressive teams in pursuit of a title-ready roster. Whether Denver is willing to part with Murray remains to be seen, but insiders suggest talks have at least taken place.If the Lakers pull this off, they will not only have made the biggest splash of the offseason but potentially positioned themselves as Western Conference favorites. A Luka Dončić–Jamal Murray pairing would redefine the team’s identity and usher in a new
era of Showtime in Los Angeles.
