LeBron James Pays Respect to Nikola Jokic After Lakers Win

LeBron James hugged Nikola Jokić after the Lakers’ 115-107 win in Denver and called the moment "the utmost respect." He also called the USA vs Serbia Olympic semifinal "one of the greatest games" he has ever played. Jokić remains out with a hyperextended left knee but is putting up 29.6/12.2/11.0 and would be the MVP front-runner if he reaches 65 games. A Lakers–Nuggets playoff pairing now feels like a real possibility. Merlin sees more than a warm gesture. Two of the era’s greats trading respect keeps their rivalry electric and sets the stage for high-stakes rematches if both stay healthy. The Nuggets are different without Jokić, but with him they are always title dangerous, and LeBron’s reverence only raises the stakes.