Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic is widely regarded as one of the best players in the NBA. Having led the league in scoring for the 2025-26 season with an average of 33.5 points per game, Doncic is also considered one of the most prolific scoring threats in the world.
Over the course of his brief NBA career, Doncic has been paired with some talented players. However, his latest running mate, LeBron James, may have arguably been the most talented one of the lot. But was he Doncic’s ideal partner?
During a recent rapid-fire promo with AirDom Basketball Store, Doncic was asked to build an ultimate two-on-two team by selecting an NBA superstar he would like to pair up with. Despite some big names being mentioned, Doncic’s preference seemed clear.
Interviewer: “Shai or Nikola Jokic?”
Doncic: “Jokic.”
Interviewer: “Jokic or Wembanyama?”
Doncic: “Jokic.”
Interviewer: “Jokic or Kevin Durant?”
Doncic: “Jokic.”
Interviewer: “Jokic or Shaquille O’Neal?”
Doncic: “Jokic.”
Interviewer: “Jokic or Magic Johnson?”
Doncic: “Jokic.”
Interviewer: “Jokic or Giannis Antetokounmpo?”
Doncic: “Jokic.”
Interviewer: “Jokic or LeBron James?”
Doncic: “Jokic.”
Interviewer: “Jokic or Larry Bird?”
Doncic: “Larry Bird.”
Interviewer: “Larry Bird or Michael Jordan?”
Doncic: “Jordan.”
“Jokic or LeBron James?”
Luka Doncic: “Jokic.”
“Jokic or Larry Bird?”
Luka: “Larry Bird.”
(via klemenkopina / IG) pic.twitter.com/O7psjoe9ts
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 6, 2026
Luka Doncic appears to play it safe by choosing Larry Bird and Michael Jordan with his last two picks. However, the 26-year-old did not hold back when showcasing his preference for Nikola Jokic as a two-on-two partner.
The Denver Nuggets superstar is certainly a terrific selection in a pickup game. Although he isn’t the most reliable defensive presence, his sheer offensive skill set and versatility are enough to compensate for his shortcomings.
Last season, Jokic finished second in MVP voting behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Given his averages of 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds (league-high), and 10.7 assists (league-high) per game while shooting 56.9% from the field and 38.0% from three-point range, some would argue that he deserved it more.
Luka Doncic’s preference for Jokic also comes as no surprise. The two are known to share a close bond, as seen in their ongoing banter. Given how their playing styles complement each other, there is also reason to believe that the two could form a successful duo.
Interestingly, the notion of pairing Doncic and Jokic has been floated in the past, though the current circumstances won’t necessarily allow for it.
Overall, Doncic’s selection of Nikola Jokic seems reasonable from a personal standpoint. But his decision to select Jokic over LeBron James raises some eyebrows.
As mentioned earlier, James has arguably been one of the most talented players Luka Doncic has ever played with. Although the duo played less than two full seasons together, there was enough evidence to suggest that they could have been successful.
Having been teammates, it would seem logical for Doncic to pick James. However, with James announcing his decision to leave the Lakers this offseason, it could be speculated that glancing over James in this rapid-fire was an indirect means of throwing shade at the 41-year-old superstar.
With James on the way out, the Lakers are undoubtedly Luka Doncic’s team now. With the Purple and Gold committing their resources to building their roster around the 26-year-old, it will be intriguing to see what he can produce.
