Speculation surrounding LeBron James’ future intensified in recent weeks following remarks made by his agent, Rich Paul, which hinted at the superstar’s championship ambitions possibly leading him away from the Los Angeles Lakers. Reports of his growing frustration with the organization only added to the drama.
Yet, even if James were to formally request a trade, finding a suitable destination would be a complex task — and not every team is prepared to pay the price.
The Dallas Mavericks have been mentioned as a possible landing spot, but recent insights suggest otherwise. According to The Athletic’s Joe Vardon and Dan Woike, the Mavericks aren’t interested in sacrificing major pieces to acquire James.
“In addition to the Lakers’ roster concerns, any team that trades for James must weigh the assets it gives up to acquire him against how many years he has left,” Vardon and Woike wrote. “One team linked to James — the Dallas Mavericks — does not have interest in gutting its roster to match James’ salary in a trade, a team source told The Athletic.”
Mavericks hesitant on LeBron’s $52 million salary
James, set to earn $52,627,153 during the 2025-26 season, will be a free agent the following year. For the Mavericks, trading for the four-time champion at age 40 could mean surrendering key assets for what might end up being a one-year rental.
Lakers unlikely to buy out James’ deal
At one point, a possible buyout was floated as a path for Dallas to land James. But that scenario now appears to be off the table.
Despite speculation, no formal buyout talks have taken place. As Vardon and Woike explained, “Again, team and league sources said no discussions about a buyout have occurred between the Lakers and James, the option merely being a pathway discussed by rival teams as they survey the situation.”
Given James’ decision to exercise his player option and his substantial $52 million salary, there’s little incentive for the Lakers to absorb that cost just to let him walk. Likewise, James doesn’t stand to benefit financially from leaving Los Angeles.
Adding to that, his family remains in Southern California, and he’s expected to share the court with his son, Bronny James, once again this season — a moment years in the making.
Whether or not there’s real tension between James and the Lakers, he remains under contract and, for now, appears firmly in place for at least one more season.
