For the first time in his career, LeBron James no longer has complete organizational control.
From the time he was nearing his first contract extension in Cleveland nearly two decades ago, LeBron has been a master of leverage, threatening to leave if the organization didn't meet his specific demands.
Throughout his two stints with the Cavaliers, as well as his time with the Heat and Lakers, this mindset has persisted, en route to four rings and making LeBron one of the highest-paid athletes in team sports worldwide.
However, at 40 years old and beyond, the definitive best player on his team, the Los Angeles brass, is more focused on life with Luka Doncic on the marquee and is no longer succumbing to LeBron's tricks.
With LeBron seeing the writing on the wall, could he try to dart to a more "win now" situation with a chance of getting another ring?
One potential suitor is reportedly only interested if he's on the free market.
According to ESPN's Dave McMenamin, the Dallas Mavericks would only be interested in "The King" if the Lakers bought him out.
Given how difficult it is to acquire players under the current CBA, it makes sense that Dallas would only want LeBron if he comes on a discount and is committed to the franchise.
LeBron could reunite with former teammates Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis and make a tantalizing forward duo with Duke Blue Devils basketball product and rookie Cooper Flagg.
Could you imagine watching LeBron toss Flagg an alley-oop on the fast break?
The likelihood of LeBron darting from LA could seem unfathomable now, but given his track record and how rapidly the situation has soured, it's far from unfeasible.