Over the past few weeks, LeBron James' future with the LA Lakers has been a major topic of conversation in the NBA. When it comes to possible landing spots for the 21-time All-Star, the Dallas Mavericks have been the main team tossed out. As this discourse continues, one analyst is all for LeBron joining a new Western Conference contender.
While on his talk show earlier this week, Colin Cowherd reacted to the Mavericks being the betting favorite to acquire LeBron if he's moved. Given the current state of the franchise, he feels landing in Dallas would be a massive upgrade for the star forward.
"This is the Mavericks' lineup. Kyrie Irving, Cooper Flagg, LeBron, Anthony Davis, and Dereck Lively," Cowherd said. "You're telling me this is a punishment for LeBron? I would sign up for that today. Better coach, reunited with two guys I've played very well with and won a title with."
From a fit perspective, it's hard to argue with Dallas not being an ideal scenario for LeBron. He could seamlessly fit in with their stars given his past, and they have the defensive personnel to lighten his workload on a nightly basis. This would allow him to better pick his spots and limit his wear and tear in the regular season so he's fresh for the playoffs.
The downside for the Mavericks would be that they'd have to gut their depth to trade for LeBron. However, there's no denying this front five isn't capable of making a deep run in the West.
At this moment, a blockbuster deal of this magnitude seems unlikely. Recent reports stated that LeBron and the Lakers have not discussed a trade. Also, developments earlier in the summer cited that Dallas would only be interested in acquiring him via a buyout.