NBA Trade Rumors: Dallas Mavericks Consider Risky but Ambitious $52.6M Move for Lakers Legend to Form Star-Studded Big 3 with Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving
The NBA offseason is heating up with one of the boldest trade rumors of the summer: the Dallas Mavericks are reportedly weighing a high-stakes, high-reward move that could reshape the Western Conference landscape. The target? None other than a $52.6 million Los Angeles Lakers legend—LeBron James. The idea fueling speculation is the potential formation of a veteran super team in Dallas alongside Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving.
This potential blockbuster, though far from a done deal, has captured attention due to its sheer magnitude and the possible implications it holds for the NBA’s balance of power. Could the Mavericks actually pull off the acquisition of one of basketball’s most iconic figures, pairing him with two other elite stars in Davis and Irving? Let’s explore the details, risks, and possible rewards of this ambitious proposition.
The Star Power at Stake
LeBron James needs no introduction. A four-time NBA champion, four-time MVP, and the league’s all-time leading scorer, LeBron has remained an elite contributor well into his 40s. Despite his age, he averaged over 25 points per game last season while continuing to be a formidable playmaker and leader.
The 2025–26 season marks the final year of his current contract, a player option worth $52.6 million, which he recently opted into. While this signals a likely intention to finish out his deal with the Lakers, it does not completely rule out the possibility of a trade—especially if the right situation presents itself and LeBron gives his approval, which is crucial since his deal includes a no-trade clause.
The Mavericks, fresh off a deep playoff run led by Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, are clearly in win-now mode. With Anthony Davis joining the team earlier this year in a surprise trade from the Lakers, Dallas now has a legitimate two-way superstar in the frontcourt. Adding LeBron would give the team an unmatched trio of experience, versatility, and postseason pedigree.
The Reunion Factor: LeBron, Kyrie, and AD
One major storyline pushing this rumor forward is the possibility of reuniting LeBron James with Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis.
LeBron and Kyrie famously won the 2016 NBA Championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers, overcoming a 3–1 deficit against the Golden State Warriors. Their on-court chemistry, when focused, was among the most dangerous in NBA history. Though their personal relationship has had ups and downs, recent years have seen signs of mutual respect and potential interest in teaming up again.
As for Anthony Davis, he and LeBron were the heart of the Lakers’ 2020 championship team. Their pick-and-roll synergy, defensive dominance, and shared leadership helped the Lakers claim the title in the COVID-affected bubble season.
Reuniting these three in Dallas would not just be a headline-grabbing spectacle—it would instantly thrust the Mavericks into championship contention.
What Makes It Risky?
Despite the allure of a new “Big Three,” the move would be fraught with challenges:
- LeBron’s Contract and No-Trade Clause
LeBron holds a no-trade clause, giving him full control over any potential move. He would have to agree not only to leave Los Angeles but also to join Dallas specifically. While the Mavericks offer competitiveness, lifestyle and legacy considerations may keep him rooted in LA. - Cap and Roster Considerations
At $52.6 million, LeBron’s salary would require Dallas to make major sacrifices. To match salaries under the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement, the Mavericks might have to offload key contributors or package together multiple players like Klay Thompson (recently acquired), Daniel Gafford, Tim Hardaway Jr., and others. - Age and Durability Concerns
LeBron will turn 41 in December. While his performance has defied typical aging curves, there’s no escaping the toll of time. Relying heavily on three stars with long injury histories—LeBron, Kyrie, and Davis—could backfire if health becomes a recurring issue. - Team Depth and Chemistry
To make this trade work, Dallas might gut its bench and role-player depth, weakening the team’s ability to stay competitive over an 82-game season and in tough playoff battles. The new Big 3 would have to immediately mesh to avoid internal issues.
What’s the Potential Reward?
If the Mavericks can pull this off and the trio stays healthy, the payoff could be immense.
- Immediate Contention: A core of LeBron, Davis, and Irving—supported by Luka Dončić or in his absence, other key role players—would form one of the most talented lineups in the league.
- Championship Window: Even with just one or two seasons of productivity from LeBron, that may be enough for a title push, especially in a Western Conference that continues to shift with each passing offseason.
- Global Spotlight: From a marketing and business standpoint, LeBron in Dallas would bring massive attention and revenue potential. Ticket sales, merchandise, and global TV ratings would all soar.
The Lakers’ Perspective
The Lakers are not in rebuilding mode, and they have consistently denied interest in trading LeBron or Davis unless explicitly requested by the players themselves. Reports suggest LeBron is content to finish his contract in Los Angeles, possibly playing alongside his son, Bronny James, who was drafted by the Lakers this year.
However, if the team underperforms or tensions rise behind the scenes, the situation could evolve quickly. Dallas’ interest, while speculative, may position them as a front-runner should LeBron become available.
Final Thoughts: Realistic or Far-Fetched?
At this stage, most insiders agree that the Mavericks’ interest in LeBron is more aspirational than actionable. Dallas has not made a formal push, and LeBron has shown no signs of wanting to leave LA. Still, the rumor has caught fire due to the dramatic possibilities it presents.
Should all the pieces fall into place—LeBron waiving his no-trade clause, Dallas structuring a viable trade, and all parties agreeing—it would represent one of the boldest trades in NBA history.
Until then, it remains a tantalizing “what if” in the NBA rumor mill.
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