The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off one of the most unexpected blockbuster trades in recent NBA memory, landing Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis.
A new report suggests the Lakers could top that with an even bigger trade, naming the Mavericks as a potential destination if LeBron James hits the trade block.
James chose to opt in to the final year of his contract for the Lakers for $52.6 million, but The Athletic's Sam Amick reported that there are growing rumors among front offices that the move could be a precursor to a trade.
"The speculation was rampant all around the league when news of James’ decision broke, with rival executives wondering if this was a precursor to a trade request (James, remember, has a no-trade clause and could thus control any such move)," Amick wrote.
Amick added that there are differing opinions, with some believing that James is just pushing the Lakers to build a title-contendeing team for what could be his final NBA season.
"Or, of course, it could be yet another attempt to apply pressure to the front office to find a way to add impactful talent," Amick wrote. "Either way, it’s becoming increasingly clear that — even if James doesn’t retire next summer — this could be his last season in a Lakers uniform."
Lakers reporter Jovan Buha suggested that the Mavericks could be a destination for James if he indeed hits the trade block.
"If LeBron asks out, keep an eye on Dallas," Buha noted.
While it could come as a surprise for the Lakers to send another star to Dallas, The Athletic's Amick suggested the Lakers are primarily concerned with the long-term future and finding a new co-star for Doncic.