NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could shift $52.6 million megastar to Milwaukee Bucks in a controversial deal for Klay-PJ duo
Could the Dallas Mavericks pull off another blockbuster trade to pair
LeBron James
with
Anthony Davis
and Kyrie Irving? A new proposal suggests just that, shaking up the NBA landscape as James enters what might be his final season.
LeBron James' Future in Question
LeBron James
recently opted into his $52.6 million player option, securing his place for a record-breaking 23rd NBA season. However, his long-term future with the Los Angeles Lakers remains uncertain. With the team struggling to build a true championship contender in a stacked Western Conference, James could explore a trade before the 2025-26 season tips off.
As Joe Mayo noted in the original report, "James is reportedly weighing his options ahead of the 2025-26 campaign and could ultimately request a trade in what may be the final year of his legendary career." (H/t: Sporting News)
The Proposed Blockbuster Trade
NBA Analysis Network's Aaditaya Krishnamurthy recently outlined a mock trade that would send James to Dallas. Here's the breakdown:
Mavericks receive:
- LeBron James
Lakers receive:
Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis (Image via USA Today Sports)
- Klay Thompson
- P.J. Washington
- Daniel Gafford
- Caleb Martin
- 2029 first-round pick (DAL via LAL)
Why This Trade Makes Sense for Dallas
The Mavericks already boast a deep frontcourt with Anthony Davis, Cooper Flagg, and
Kyrie Irving
. Adding James would solidify them as immediate title favorites. Here's what Dallas gains:
- A proven leader and playmaker in James.
- A formidable trio of James, Davis, and Irving.
- Increased championship odds in what could be James' last season.
What the Lakers Get in Return
For Los Angeles, this trade would mark a shift toward rebuilding around Luka Dončić. The Lakers would acquire:
- A proven scorer in Klay Thompson.
- Versatile defenders in P.J. Washington and Caleb Martin.
- A reliable big man in Daniel Gafford.
- A future first-round pick for flexibility.
Potential Impact on Both Teams
Team
Pros
Cons
Mavericks
Instant title contention, veteran leadership
Losing depth, long-term risk if James retires soon
Lakers
Younger roster, future draft assets
Losing a superstar, short-term competitiveness drops
This trade would be a high-stakes gamble for both teams. For Dallas, it's a win-now move with no guarantees beyond this season. For the Lakers, it's a step toward a new era—but at the cost of losing an all-time great.
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors predicted to land $20 million Boston Celtics center to support Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler and improve title odds
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on whether either team pulls the trigger on this blockbuster deal.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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