LeBron James’ decision to opt into his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers signals a pivotal moment as discussions surrounding his future with the franchise intensify. Many NBA executives and player agents speculate that had the Lakers offered a one-plus-one deal, featuring a second-year player option in the $55-$58.5 million range, it is likely that James would have opted out. This raises the question of whether the Lakers extended such an offer, particularly given that James possesses one of the league’s rare no-trade clauses, which allows him to control any potential trades without his consent.

Currently, the Dallas Mavericks are believed to be among the teams that could be a favorable destination for James. Having previously won championships alongside notable players such as Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, and Jason Kidd—who now serves as an assistant coach for the Lakers—James has a vested interest in continuing to compete at a high level. With the Mavericks aiming to maximize their championship window with Luka Dončić, especially with Anthony Davis entering the later stages of his career at age 32, a theoretical trade scenario has emerged that could benefit all three teams involved.

In this proposed three-team trade involving the Mavericks, Lakers, and Brooklyn Nets, the Mavericks would receive LeBron James, while the Lakers would acquire multiple viable rotation players to support Dončić and help reset their financial flexibility. The Nets would facilitate the trade, potentially gaining future assets while shedding some contracts. This trade would allow the Mavericks to forfeit depth in exchange for James, acknowledging that while veteran presence is crucial, rebuilding a roster around a newly acquired star might also prove to be a significant challenge as they navigate their financial commitments.