The Dallas Mavericks have been linked to LeBron James this summer — if the Los Angeles Lakers are willing to part with the veteran superstar.
James and the Lakers could reportedly explore a trade or buyout if he feels the team isn't built to contend for an NBA championship in what might be his final season. While the Lakers remain focused on winning now, they’re also preparing for a post-LeBron future with Luka Doncic. Doncic’s former team, the Mavericks, have surfaced in trade rumors for James, though the Nuggets could also attempt to acquire the four-time MVP's services.
Dan Favale of Bleacher Report recently proposed a mock trade that would pair James with three-time MVP Nikola Jokic in the 2025-26 campaign.
Here’s Favale’s proposed trade:
Nuggets receive: LeBron James, Bronny James
Lakers receive: DaRon Holmes II, Jamal Murray, Peyton Watson, 2028 first-round pick swap
MORE: Knicks, Lakers swap stars in mock trade for LeBron James
The Nuggets added several pieces this summer, including Cameron Johnson, Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown. While a deal to reunite James with former teammates Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis in Dallas might seem more likely, the Nuggets could present a compelling offer for the 40-year-old forward while remaining competitive.
However, the Mavericks could likely offer a stronger package while preserving more depth. Dallas has tradable assets and frontcourt depth they could move, whereas trading Murray would deal a major blow to the Nuggets’ title hopes and long-term outlook.
It remains unclear whether James will finish his legendary career with the Lakers, but if he chooses to move on, both Western Conference contenders could be in the mix.
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