A player option, Toronto’s need at centre and Darko Rajaković’s Serbian connection make Jokić an intriguing Raptors possibility—but a deal would demand major assets.
Nikola Jokić could become available as early as next summer, giving the Toronto Raptors a blockbuster possibility to consider in 2027. The idea depends on a player option, a strong connection to head coach Darko Rajaković and Toronto’s need for a high-level centre.
Jokić has a player option for the 2027-28 season. If he declines it, he could become a free agent in the summer of 2027. That would give Toronto a chance to pursue him directly, while a trade would require the Raptors to assemble a substantial package.
Why Jokić fits a Toronto need
The Raptors have a clear reason to explore the idea. Toronto ranked 24th in rebounds last season, and Jokić would address that weakness while adding one of the game’s best passing centres.
His value would extend beyond rebounding. Jokić’s ability to create offence from the centre position would give Toronto another way to generate scoring opportunities and make him a natural focal point for the team’s attack.
Rajaković gives Toronto a personal connection
Toronto’s most notable link to Jokić runs through Rajaković. The Raptors coach has worked with Jokić on the Serbian national team, and the pair are reportedly close.
That connection could make Toronto a more familiar destination if Jokić becomes open to a move. It does not make a deal inevitable, but it gives the Raptors a meaningful relationship to point to in any future pursuit.
A trade would cost the Raptors heavily
If Toronto had to trade for Jokić, the Raptors would need to include major players and first-round picks. Jakob Poeltl, Immanuel Quickley or RJ Barrett could be part of a package, depending on the structure of a potential deal.
The possibility of a blockbuster should not be confused with an active trade story. For now, the Jokić-to-Toronto idea rests on his 2027 contract decision, the Raptors’ centre need and the relationship he already has with Rajaković.
Toronto would have to make a major commitment to turn the scenario into reality. The recent example of Miami landing Giannis shows that a deal of this scale is possible, but Jokić’s availability would come first.
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