The NBA All-Star Game is always a spectacle, but this year in Los Angeles, the league is shaking things up with a fresh format-and some familiar faces. Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic, two of the game’s brightest international stars and close friends off the court, are set to reunite as teammates once again. This time, they’ll be suiting up for Team World in a revamped setup that pits the league’s top international talent against two Team USA squads.
Doncic, the Los Angeles Lakers’ star guard, is clearly excited about the new format-and about sharing the floor with Jokic again. “Amazing, yes.
I think everyone knows what kind of friend Nikola is,” Doncic said. “That is great.
We will be in LA, so we will probably spend time off the court together.”
That camaraderie isn’t new. Doncic and Jokic have been mainstays in recent All-Star Games, sharing laughs, plays, and even a few pranks along the way.
Reporter: What do you think about you and Nikola being starters together at the All Star game?
— Luka Updates (@LukaUpdates) January 27, 2026
Luka: Amazing, yes. I think everyone knows what kinda friend Nikola is. That is great. We will be in LA so we will probably spend time off court together. pic.twitter.com/PPXFjafzzs
They were both starters for the Western Conference in 2024 and previously teamed up on Team LeBron in 2023. Their chemistry on the court mirrors their friendship off it-effortless, intuitive, and fun to watch.
But there’s a question mark hanging over Jokic’s availability this time around. The Denver Nuggets’ big man is still working his way back from a knee injury that’s already sidelined him for 15 games. Initially projected to miss four weeks, his recovery timeline appears to have stretched longer than expected, casting doubt on whether he’ll be able to suit up for the midseason showcase.
If Jokic can’t go, Team World will still be in good hands. Doncic will have no shortage of elite talent around him, including Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, and San Antonio’s rising phenom Victor Wembanyama. That’s a group that brings length, creativity, and serious firepower-more than enough to keep Team World dangerous, even without the three-time MVP anchoring the middle.
It’s also worth noting that Doncic himself missed last year’s All-Star Game due to a calf injury, so this return carries a bit of extra meaning. He’s healthy now, and with the game taking place in his home arena, the stage is set for a memorable night-especially if Jokic can join him.
Whether Jokic is cleared in time or not, the new format gives fans something fresh to look forward to. And for Doncic, it’s another chance to showcase his game alongside some of the league’s best, while sharing the moment with a close friend. If the past is any indication, expect a mix of highlight plays, big smiles, and maybe even a prank or two.